Sila's first day at work went smoothly as she had hoped for. She got introduced to the core of the operations-her team for the foreseeable future-as long as she worked for the company.

The division of the tasks hit her instantly, and she took a deep breath of relief. This was something she secretly wished for at her previous workplace. Ajwa relied on her too much if she was honest, leaving everything for her to manage and figure out. Nothing of that sort would be the norm here as Elma was particular about participation from every employee. A good start.

Another thing Elma staunchly stood against was tardiness. She wanted the best out of every department and that meant no slacking off. They had their first event scheduled as it is and Sila would be lying if she said she wasn't pumped.

Closing her laptop, she stretched her sore limbs. It had been two hours since she perched herself on the couch, lost in her work emails and scheduling. She craned her neck toward the empty mug of coffee. He had made her the heavenly concoction, stating she needed it and she did. So, with genuine thanks, she took it from him. His coffee brewing abilities were never under any doubt. He was good at it.

But then again, what is there he's not good at?"

Her mind asked sagely and she suppressed a smile. From finding fault in everything that came out of his mouth to thinking he was the problem solver in this marriage, she came a long way.

As she picked up her phone from the table, the notifications bar made her stop in her tracks.

Danish had put up a story after ages. It was just a blurry city backdrop; a trademark Danish shot with a two-syllable caption, nothing superfluous but there was a haunting beauty to it. Sila not only reacted to it but sent him a message as well. She hadn't done it in a long while. When they were struggling through their turbulent relationship and not when they finally called it quits and Sila got married.

The stimulus behind it wasn't the fact that Aahil and Danish were now kind of in each other's good books. That was an added detail but not the entire reason. Sila had entered her marriage with Aahil with a clean slate. She and Danish also didn't have a massive ugly fallout. They ended things amicably and in complete understanding of each other's scenarios. The way back to each other as friends was open and Sila would've opted for it one way or the other. Danish had been one of her people, someone she trusted. Yes, it turned out that they weren't suited as a couple but Sila and Danish both cherished their role as friends for each other, and sooner or later, they were bound to get back to it.

Me: That's one nice click.

Danish: Thank you. Went there after a long time. Good to know things haven't changed.

Me: By the way, next time you can expect better hosting than a tin of coca cola.

Danish: Do you see me complaining? That was nice.

Me: If you say so.

Danish: It was, Sila. Trust me on that.

.

.

.

.

Danish: Your husband also seems ok, btw.

Sila couldn't stop her chuckle. What was it? Warmth? Pride? She couldn't say with conviction but it felt good.

Me: That he is 😄. Good night, Danish. See you around, eh?

Danish: Of course. Good night, Sila.

Adjusting her shirt, she put her hair behind her ear and made her way to their bedroom where he had retired to an hour back. The smile didn't fade, it deepened with each passing second. He wanted to stay to keep her company but he also had had a packed and tiring day. It was his decision to leave Nawar and Sahira's team, stating it was no longer fun. That was another thing that attending back-to-back meetings and conferences with his father and brother was also not his idea of fun. Work hardly provides you that opportunity anyway, so he'd made peace with it.

As soon as Sila opened the door, she found him sprawled on the bed, not fast asleep as she had expected. His phone was in his hand and by the looks of it, he was busy on a video call.

"I told you ten minutes into our conversation that the black one was it."

"I know! But it doesn't hurt to have a look at other options, now does it?"

Ammi? Sila took her seat next to him. He gave her a busy smile and turned back to the mobile screen. "Sila's here. We can get her opinion, what do you say?"

Saying that he handed Sila the phone. Naheed's face came into her focus.

"You look overworked already."

Sila shook her head, a smile reached her lips. "I always look overworked to you. But, I'm not, Ammi. I hardly began today. Now tell me what's this about?"

She pointed around. Aahil shifted closer so he could look at the screen. "Ammi was confused and needed an opinion."

"Confused about what?" She looked between Aahil and Naheed.

"The dress, Sila. Ammi has an event coming and she needs to go all out." He informed her and to Sila's utter amusement, Naheed blushed a little in her trademark desi mum style.

"Your Abu's unit reunion is next week. Muaz has gone back to his base so it's just me and Colonel Sahab who'll attend it. I deliberately didn't hit you up. Figured you'd be busy and look how right I was. Aahil also told me as such."

"I'm never that busy for you, Ammi. Show me the dresses."

"She sent me pictures," Aahil informed her once again. Sila turned toward him. Normally, she'd feel left out but here, the involvement of this man was oddly comforting to her. She was fully focused when he took the phone from her hand and scrolled up to show her the pictures Naheed had sent him earlier.

"So, what do you say?"

The question seemed to bring her out of a trance. She looked at his expectant face and pointed at the black dress.

"Good. We are in agreement here. Black it is, Ammi."

He told Naheed and went back to the conversation at hand. Naheed looked thankful for their help. Sila made sure to give her some more directions but she waived her off, more than prepared for the gathering now that her dress was picked and decided. She wished them both a good night. If Sila noticed her inclination toward her son-in-law, she didn't show it on her face.

"Off to bed, finally?"

He asked, once Sila hit her pillow. She nodded tiredly and closed her eyes. The contentment lingered and transformed into something deeper when he put the duvet over them and his arm came around her torso.

𝄞

Apparently, getting a new job was somewhat of a cause for celebration in the Jahangir household. The dinner tonight proved as such. Sila had just gotten done for the day when Sabah called. The prospect of which was enough to make her full of gratitude. Sila reached her place, their place, and found Aahil already home. Both of them got ready soon afterward and were off to the Jahangir residence.

"I remember the last time I met Elma. Had her team booked for my clothing line launch. Amazing work ethic and professionalism. Someone I can see matching Sila's integrity." Adan commented as she sipped on her tea. The dinner was a joyous affair. Everyone was present and much to Sila's bewilderment, their main focus was on her new job.

It wasn't the first work achievement of her life, though the scale was grander than anything she got her hands on. But she wasn't used to the jubilation on her own part her in-laws showcased. As if, this was something they all needed to celebrate. There must've been far massive prospects in their line of work to throw a party for but the fact that for them, this milestone in her career carried the same weight, it was all a bit emotional and new to her. Granted, the residents of Wadia House and her extended family sans her Abu had also been there whenever she achieved something, but this felt different. It was different.

"She should be happy our Sila is now on her team. The good days for her company are here."

Mrs. Irshad's self-assured tone could give anyone a complex. Sila was generally confident about her abilities but this was both sweet and a bit intimidating. "Dada, I haven't covered any event for her yet."

"So? You will soon and then she will be saying exactly what I just did."

She had established long back that this was where Aahil got his stubborn tendencies from whenever he was immersed in a debate.

"I think Dado is right. Though I haven't worked with Elma, I've heard nothing but good things about her. You both will make a good team, Sila." Nawar asserted Mrs. Irshad's point.

"Exactly. Don't fret, child. Things are only going to get on a steady track from here on." Sabah assured her by pressing her hand softly against Sila's arm. She was at a loss for words. She just knew this felt good and she'd love to get used to it.

The talks flew. Faseeh and Faran were genuinely interested in this new venture of hers. They looked at it like shrewd businessmen. Elma wasn't an unknown name. So, the fact that Sila was now associated with a company that was once promised to take even managing business in Pakistan to a new level was important to them. After the dinner, the men were in the lounge, watching a game of football and to Sila's utter amusement, along with Faseeh, Faran, and Aahil, Arsh and Zain were also rooted to their seats. The love for this sport really ran in the family as Adan and Nawar also looked behind them, to know the progress.

Just then, a bored out of her wits Hanah plopped herself in Sila's lap and made a face. Not a sports fan, eh? At least someone here was like her. Sila mused.

"Let me guess, you don't like football?"

Hanah shook her head. Sila raised her hand in a high five. "Mami also isn't a fan."

"Don't let the other two hear it. They'll be disappointed." Adan laughed lightly. Her eyes darted to where the men were sitting and with a small sigh, she looked away.

"Adan? Is everything okay?" Sila asked. Adan's smile was waning but she got over her dejection quickly.

"Oh, Sila. Don't you know? Our Adan gets like this when her husband isn't around."

Misam was out of the city as they were told when they got here. Sila had noticed that about him. The man was a true workaholic.

"It's not that deep." Adan grimaced at Nawar but looking at her, anyone could say it was deep. Sila ran her fingers in Hanah's curls who had busied herself with Mami's phone. Sila didn't even have to give her directions, the kid knew which icon to touch.

"This girl is bonkers." Mrs. Irshad put in earning a defiant 'So?' look from Adan. Sabah shook her head, used to all this. "Adan, you know he's busy, right? He's mentioned time and again how important this deal is for him. Let him focus on that."

"I'm not distracting him, now, am I? Geez, thank you for the confidence, Mama."

Sabah got up, as if they had this conversation before as well and she knew the outcome wouldn't be any different. "I'm going to pack Aahil and Sila some food."

"That's not necessary, Auntie-" Sila tried to stop her but Sabah was already out of there. Mrs. Irshad also followed suit but instead of going to the kitchen, she sat next to her youngest grandson. Her focus was completely on the screen. The same curious expression was settled on her and Aahil's faces. Sila stifled her laugh.

"My plans seem to be in jeopardy, all my hard work. These people will never understand." Adan grumbled under her breath. Sila and Nawar exchanged a look and shifted closer to her. Hanah was completely immersed in the phone, not slightly attuned to the conversation her mother and two Mamis were having.

"What it is about?" Sila was confused. Nawar took a deep sigh. "Workaholic husbands, Sila. You just can't win with those. Add in your own commitments and family obligations and you know you'll never have a moment to yourself. Adan wants to go on a couple's getaway. She's low-key planning for it but seeing Meesam's schedule, it doesn't seem to be in the works anymore. Same story here. Guess, me and Adan are in the same boat." She glanced furtively in Faran's way.

"His project concludes in a week and then ideally, he's not stuck in meetings. That's my only chance to convince him. I was sure I will but now, I'm not so confident."

Adan rested her head on the couch and made a face.

"Adan, you have your junior staff to handle your store when you're MIA, right?" Sila asked.

"Of course. They can manage for a week."

"What about you, Bhabhi? Mrs. Sahira can take over for you, can't she?"

"She obviously can. But that's not the problem, Sila. The kids-"

"Leave them to me and Aahil. They are used to staying over there, aren't they? During the day, Dado and Auntie can look after them. We have Jamil for that as well. The school will also keep them busy. The rest of the day they are mine and Aahi's responsibility. We'll take them to our place. You know how well the kids get along with their Chachu and Mamu."

"That's one thing we will never be worried about, Sila. I trust you and Aahil with the kids without a second thought."

"Then it's decided. Convince your husbands, both of you, and go enjoy this trip. If you can't, my husband can intervene. We all know he's a force to be reckoned with when he wants to prove a point."

"He's the worst to have a debate with."

"I'll take it as a compliment even though, it probably wasn't one."

At that, all three of them laughed out loud. Everyone in the lounge looked at them for a moment. Sila and Aahil's eyes met and she grinned at him. He looked mildly concerned but between the two of them, she was the one who'd not get into any trouble so they were safe, he hoped.

Sila leaned back and pulled Hanah closer who rested her head on Mami's shoulder as she played her game.

𝄞

Amal stopped the car in an empty spot. Raed looked around at their surroundings. Burns Road and its adjoining markets were buzzing with life. The evening had just made way for the night and seemed like like everywhere else in this city, life became even more vibrant with the sunset.

"I hope you had a light lunch because if we want to explore at least some of the shops and restaurants here, a full stomach won't do," Amal said, killing the engine as she turned to him. Her hair was tied in a messy bun which made her silver earrings more prominent. She arched an eyebrow at him. The lights coming from outside cast their glow at her in such a way that her kohled eyes looked mysterious, soft but with a story of their own.

"I didn't. You were particular about it when you called in the morning."

"Good. Now let's get out of here and let the fun begin."

He didn't need to be told twice. As soon as he closed the passenger side door behind him, warm summer air hit him right in the face, and along with it, the wafting aroma of cuisines. Food and spices.

Amal walked ahead of him and gestured for him to follow her. He did so as he was told. The sidewalk was littered with restaurants with just enough space for pedestrians. The traffic wasn't as heavy as he had seen on the rest of the road of Karachi but it was still enough to add to the cacophony. Motorcycles, cars, auto rickshaws, and the famous W-11 decorated bus the horn of which tried its best to summon the dead.

"This food strip has been here since the late 1800s. Can you believe this vibrant street was once used for artillery and military practices for the Raj?" Amal said over her shoulder. Raed had his phone out, taking pictures as he listened to her intently or tried to, the street wasn't quiet by any means.

"But this what it's now. The largest and oldest food street in the city and the place where the real taste of Karachi melts in your mouth, literally. Many shop owners around here have opened their subsequent branches in other areas, posh and middle class both but the fanfare they have here in burns road is unbeatable. So what do you want to try first?"

"I thought you were in charge of that?"

"I'm. I just wanted to know your preference, otherwise, let's do it my way. We will begin with Babu Bhai's bun kebabs. Come along now."

As if the prospect of her favorite dish around here infused a new spirit in her, she walked with more vigor, urging him to keep up and he did. They stopped outside a roadside eatery. Raed saw with interest, the buns, the kebabs, and the pots of Chutnis. Amal ordered three.

"Two for me and one for you as it's your first time tasting it. But I can bet you'll ask for more."

The conviction didn't surprise Raed. If Amal was sure then chances were high that he'd ask for more. She conversed with the man behind the counter. He looked at him interestedly. Raed couldn't understand much but by the looks of it, his introduction had already been made.

In the next few minutes, the plate of fresh bun kebab was thrust into his hand. He saw Amal already digging into hers and if she claimed that this was her favorite thing about coming here, she wasn't lying. She savored it.

"Come on! It's really good. Trust me on it!"

Raed didn't need to be told twice. He took the first bite of the bun covered with the chutni and enclosed within which was the egg-covered kebab.

Several tastes exploded in his mouth at the same time. The meat and lentil-filled kebab, the fried egg covering, the softness of the bun, and the sweet and spicy chutni.

It was good. Off with it, it was GOOD.

The appreciation must've shown on his face. Amal high-fived him triumphantly and grinned at the shopkeeper who looked mildly smug. "You just got the real taste of Karachi."

The excursion after that proved this statement time and again. BBQ chicken, Sujji, Broast, Rotisserie chicken, fried chicken, buffalo wings, charga, fish fry, finger fish, Nihari, dhagha kebab, biryani, pulao, haleem, karahi, dahi baray, gol gappay, fresh gulab jamun, andrasay, limca, zinger burger, gyro sandwich, paan, lassi, rabri, lacchay (cotton candy), mandi, and shawarma.

And that wasn't the whole of it. They could explore to a certain extent. Even among all these things they had tasted just a few. But Raed had enjoyed thoroughly what he ate. Apart from the variety and taste, another thing that stood out to him was the hospitality.

"Told you," Amal said as she took a sip of her blueberry limca. "Karachi's big three: Diversity, hospitality, and inclusivity. You've got a glimpse of all three one way or the other."

And he had. The diverse religious and cultural hubs she stopped by the first time they went out to explore downtown Karachi. The hospitality was out of the question, she was proof enough of how accepting the people here were of others then came the inclusivity and the way this city embraced everyone in its warm cocoon, itself being battered and torn.

The trip back to Amal's car was silent.

"What's on your mind?"

She asked as she started the car. Raed rested his head against the seat. "It's truly remarkable how preserving culture can be. Customs and traditions, food and spices, are inherited from generation to generation. When your mere identity is snatched away, these things keep your footprints from blurring."

The hint of sadness in his voice pierced Amal's heart.

"First they come for your country and then for your culture. Za'tar, zait, tabbouleh, sumac, musakhan, mujaddara, mtabbaq, mansaf, malfouf, knafeh, hummus, falafel-some of the dishes, spices, and food items from my land. But the other will claim these are their own."

He looked at her, a ghost of a smile was on his face. "But that's where the power of culture comes in. They can try all they might but their zait-olive oil can never be of the quality of my Sido's cultivation."

"Your grandfather, if I'm not wrong."

He nodded, going back to his previous position. The companionable silence stretched when Raed looked out of the window. "This isn't the route we came from."

To give him a better idea of the city he was going to write a book on, Amal made sure to take longer routes to reach their destinations. The traffic in Karachi was a setback in this endeavor but she did her best.

"If we go by the way we came, we'll have to cross Karsaz. Even though it's not that late, I don't want to take chances."

"What are you on about?"

Amal shrugged her shoulders. "Local lore. A ghost in bridal apparel roams there late in the night. People are warned to steer clear of that road at this hour."

"And you believe it?"

"That doesn't matter. Sometimes you just have to follow the rules. I might not look it, but I'm a risk taker only when I know the odds. Sneaking around for ghost brides isn't my idea of daring."

"So, you don't believe in the lore?"

A slight smile reached Amal's lips. " Oh, I love a good fairy tale, especially those my Ammo used to narrate to me when I was a child. About giants and fairy princesses, about princes and knights, about caves and lost tiaras. Do I believe all that? No. Do I love my Ammo? Very much."

"Your grandmother if I'm not wrong?"

Amal nodded, her smile didn't fade but the infinitesimal change in her wasn't hidden from Raed. She was subdued.

A shared pain.

"Sittee also had a lot of stories to tell. They usually featured her Jaffa, its port, the shammūtī-the Jaffa oranges. You can say my grandmother's stories were centered on reality, fiction wasn't her forte."

Nostalgia was. He didn't say that but he didn't have to. Amal looked sideways at him. Not a word was exchanged but the palpable understanding between them didn't need any gesture.

It wasn't just him discovering her world, it seemed. She was doing the same even without trying.

𝄞

A few weeks back, breaks during work were never high up on Danish's priority list. He'd be neck-deep in his worksheets and marketing formats, not paying any heed to his surroundings. Add in a mug or two of coffee or tea and he'd be good to go.

Tragic way of living, if he was now honest with himself.

So, amidst job applications, interviews, and his side gigs, he employed this new habit. To take a few minutes away from corporate dud and give it to something else, no matter if the recreational activity is small as sipping tea.

He stood in his window and took a sip. Outside, his mother and brother sat on the chairs on the small veranda, chatting about God knows what.

By the rule, that's when Danish would go back to the task at hand. But Danish was also trying his hand at something he had never done before. So, with renewed energy, he left his room and reached his family downstairs.

Bushra was pleasantly surprised to see her elder son joining them for the evening tea. She patted the chair next to her and Danish sat down wordlessly.

"You guys never told me there was a full party going on here," Danish exclaimed, taking a hand full of the nimko.

"These are for those who take time out of their busy schedule and sit down with the family," Dareer informed him as he watered his plants. Bushra hid her smile but gave Dareer a reprimanding glare. His answer was a shrug of his shoulder.

"Then why are you invited?" Danish shot back. Dareer lazily pointed toward his plants. "This is my busy schedule."

Danish tried to look done but couldn't do so. Dareer had also picked up on his brother's good mood; a rarity when he was busy with work. But a welcomed change.

"Dareer, don't be a brat."

Danish got up with his empty cup. "Leave him be, Mama. He's in his natural habitat."

He had taken just a step forward when a jet of water hit him square in the back. With that, Dareer's evil laughter rang in the whole house. "Our natural habitat, Bhai."

Danish whipped around, not a smudge of annoyance on his face, just concealed surprise and the instinct to get hold of this insolent child. Bushra sat in her seat, enjoying the monkey show with rapt attention.

Their water fight could've gone longer than intended, if not for the car that stopped outside their gate and the ringing of the doorbell.

When Rameen agreed to accompany her mother and brother to Bushra's place, she hadn't, in her wildest dream thought of the visual she came across. Dareer and Danish were drenched to their toes and Bushra was in hysterics. She raised an eyebrow as she stood behind Rafay who grinned at the scene. Bushra immediately stood up to greet her best friend and the kids.

"We were passing your place by after Rafay's shopping and he made a racket that he needs to show it to Dareer. Best pals, I tell you." Najia mock-glared at her son who was already busy with his friend. Bushra and Najia went inside, their talks ensued already. Rameen could use the same line here, best friends, I tell you.

Danish glanced at his soaked state and then at his friend. He gave her a sheepish smile. She raised an eyebrow and turned to Rafay. "Hurry up, will you? I have errands to run."

"You just got off work." Danish reminded her somewhat begrudgingly. The fact that Rameen was giving him a cold shoulder didn't sit well with him.

"So? I have other things than work in my life to worry over. But don't worry I do not expect you to understand that."

Ouch. Danish didn't even attempt to hide his emotions. "That was uncalled for, Reen."

She had also realized that by then but instead of apologizing to him, she turned on her heels and went toward the gate. Danish followed suit, obviously.

"Don't run away."

"I'm not!"

"Yes, you're. You've been ignoring me for weeks now."

"I wonder why would I do that? Nothing went south. You didn't mess anything up. I'm just acting up."

"I did, okay. I know I did and I never deny that. But it was between me and Sila, Reen and as far as I know, we have made peace to a great extent."

"Congratulations on that, Danish."

She drawled and was about to open the gate when he effortlessly stopped her, by placing his hand on top of hers. "You can't be more disappointed in me than Sila. And she seems to be much more approachable regarding this issue."

"That's because Sila had given up on you long back, Danish. For her, your relationship ended at Farmaan's wedding itself. She was just trying to work through everything so that the end wouldn't be as horrendous as it seemed to be. She was ready for everything because that night she lost all hope in you."

Danish closed his eyes, regret once again gnawing at him. Rameen slipped her hand out of his grasp. "Don't regret it now. Sila is in a far better place and gosh, I love that for her. This is what she deserves and more. I also appreciate the fact that you two are civil and trying to maintain the friendship that was once there."

"Then what is the problem, Reen? Tell me so I can fix it."

"You, Danish. Your attitude. That's the problem."

"What-"

"You made Sila miserable. You made her cry. And during that whole fiasco, you acted like the Danish I used to know never would've! You were better than that, Danish. I know it. You also do. The level-headed, reasonable, empathetic Danish would've never acted the way you did. You made me take a step back and think Do I know this person anymore? and that was not pretty. That was also a disservice to the man beneath all the layers of his problems. He would've never done such a thing no matter what. I can still say this with conviction but can you?"

With that, she opened the gate and went outside, honking to let Rafay know he needed to hurry up. By then, Najia and Bushra had also come out of the lounge. No one had noticed what conspired here just now but the deep worrying frown on Danish's face would've given him away if someone tried to pay attention.

𝄞

For Alina, the definition of a day off was relaxing in her bed, scrolling through her phone or Netflix. Shopping around Tariq Road with her newly found girl squad was a novelty, the one she was getting used to.

The plan was conjured keeping her in the mind only. Her imminent talk with Osama was a near possibility now. And she felt as anxious and unprepared for it as ever. But one thing she had drilled into her mind: she could no longer escape it. Whatever the outcome was, she had to come clean to him.

After that encounter with Rimsha two days back, she refrained from going to the sets. It wasn't about ignoring Osama. The chances of them having a heart-to-heart surrounded by the cast and crew were nil as it was. Alina just wanted to steer clear of Rimsha. After having first-hand experience with what venom she was capable of spewing, it was wise to leave her be. One less thing to worry about. Her assistant staff was carrying out the duties well. It was the last week of the principal shooting anyway.

Her day was lousy and filled with anxious thoughts when Haleh called on her and the disappointment there on her face was palpable. The next thing Alina knew, she was being dragged out of her place as Haleh sent an SOS and called an Uber. In about half an hour, the five of them were on an impromptu shopping spree.

"I hope Aahil isn't sulking. We literally kidnapped his wife on a day off." Rameen giggled as she touched up her face. Sila's response was a slight smile behind the wheel.

"He was fine with it, just to be clear."

"He better be! We had you first! He'll always come second."

"He's not the one in a one-sided competition, Haleh."

"He's turned his business major wife into his advocate. Of course, he's not bothered by any competition. He knows he got you good."

Sila chose to stay silent. She could either focus on driving or get into a baseless banter with Haleh. She chose to do the former. The latter would make her lose a substantial amount of brain cells.

"Are we sure we are headed the right way? I mean this hangout is for Alina and we should go the places she frequents." Amal gave her suggestion.

"I'm okay with anything. And no, it's not my first time around here. When you need authentic high-quality fabric, these old markets are a good place to start."

"Exactly. Tariq Road never disappoints. You can get anything around here that too on such a reasonable price."

"My pick will always be Zainab Market, though. I got my annual dinner Saree from there and I tell you the boutique I initially went to, they were ripping me off. Got the fabric from Zainab Market at half the price, gave our local tailor to stitch it up and that's it. My Mama was real proud of my frugality." Rameen shared the anecdote and that proved to be the beginning of a succession of such incidents from all of them. Alina took her part by narrating some of the incidents from the fashion shows she'd been a part of.

"But one thing is for sure, wherever you go shopping, never let Haleh be in charge of bargaining." Both Sila and Rameen agreed with Amal while Haleh was ready to throw hands. Alina just enjoyed the show.

"What's wrong with my bargaining? No shopkeeper can rip me off."

"When you place 300 for a thing worth 3000, it's you who's trying to rip the shopkeeper off, Haleh."

"You guys are just jealous of my negotiation skills."

"It's called having an argument."

"Whatever." It was three against one with a bemused Alina, Haleh had to give up.

The hangout proved to be the distraction Alina needed. She genuinely enjoyed her time with the girls. Shopping and mindless talks with the girl gang, she never had this in her life before, and now that she got it, she could say with conviction how important it was.

"Feeling better?"

They decided to hit a restaurant on their way back to take care of their growling stomachs. Alina was silently eating her zinger when Rameen asked good-naturedly.

"Much better. Thank you for everything, you guys. This," She pointed around. "Really took my mind off things."

"Anytime. We are always up to get out of the house."

"Can't say the same about Sila. She now has a six feet tall responsibility tied to her."

"Six feet and two inches." Sila corrected with a shrug. Alina couldn't help her laugh at that. Amal kept on looking at her curiously and then she leaned forward. "Did you ever try to hook up with other people, Alina?"

Alina almost choked on her bite. Rameen and Sila groaned while Haleh looked equally interested.

"That's one invasive question, Amal." Sila reprimanded her but Amal just shrugged. "Alina doesn't seem to have minded at all."

"Doesn't mean you can ask whatever comes to your mind. Really can't take you," Rameen pointed at Haleh as well. "Two anywhere."

"It's okay. I didn't mind. And to answer your question, Amal, no. I never hooked up with anyone else."

Before Amal could go with this answer, Haleh made a face. "No wonder you look so miserable." She muttered.

All the eyes went to her and she realized, once again, it was anything but a whisper. But she didn't look one bit fazed. She wouldn't be Haleh if she did.

An exasperated laugh escaped Alina's mouth. "Are you always this honest in your assessment?"

"Ignore her Alina. She's got no filter." Rameen glared at Haleh who went back to her fries.

"Once again, I didn't mind. I'm just amused. I also happen to know a person who's as unapologetic in his assessment as she is. So, it's not news to me. I'd say you two would get along fine but the reality doesn't vouch for that fact."

Amal couldn't help her chuckle. "Is that person by any chance a certain Lashari?"

Alina nodded and suddenly the mischievous looks were directed at Haleh whose face was contorted into an expression of disdain.

"They are working together. I won't rule out the possibility that they can get along fine."

"I'm working on a painting he's commissioned! Working together my ass!"

"At least you two are civil. That's a start."

"I'm in it just for the money."

"I never said you were in for the looks."

"He's not even that handsome!"

"I know, Haleh, I get it. He's handsome but not that handsome."

Amal and Haleh's bickering continued as they paid the bill and came out of the restaurant. Rameen was behind them, adding fuel to the fire. All of them forgot Amal's question for Alina which started this conversation.

All of them sans Sila.

She walked right beside Alina toward their parking spot. Sila tried to search for something on Alina's face. She said there hadn't been anyone in her life that way after Osama but Aahil had told her she dated Adeel Hashmi for a while.

It'd be invasive to prod Alina but there was surely something here that didn't add up.

𝄞

Pouring a glass of water for herself, Alina glanced at the shopping bags on her couch. It was a good day. She had one after months. The girls, even though a riot together, were a wholesome bunch. Something she'd missed out on in life up until now. Their company took her mind off things but now that she was in the empty confines of her place, it all came back to her.

Hooking up with other people? She wanted to laugh out at the irony but before she could dwell on it any further, her doorbell rang. Placing the glass back on the counter, she made her way to the entrance hallway.

"Hey, Lina." Mahad greeted her cheerfully and hugged her sideways.

"You said you were in Islamabad."

"I was. Came back in the morning but got held up in an official dinner. You'd think the oldies will treat Sunday as Sunday but no. But this weekend was dedicated to all my ladies. Mama, Gina and obviously, you. So here I'm."

"I'm flattered but good thing you got held up. I wasn't home anyway."

"A date?"

"A girls' hangout with Sila, Rameen, Amal, and Haleh."

"Sounds fun. But am I right to assume you no longer need me, Lina?"

She swatted his arm away. "Really, Mahad? You and your theatrics. As if you don't spend time with Osama and Aahil. Did I ever complain?"

"I used to spend time with them. I'm not sure about now."

She appraised him suspiciously. "What? Why?"

He didn't meet her eye even though his smile was the brightest. "Just the usual with us."

"Mahad Lashari, What. Did. You. do?"

He sighed. "I might or might not have called Sam selfish."

"What the fu-"

"In my defense, I got carried away."

"And am I correct to assume you got carried away, because of me?" She air quoted with an air of a primary school teacher. Mahad grimaced. "Again, in my defense, I love you."

"But I do not like you at this moment, you absolute dunce!"

"I'm aware. Always the same with you when it's about that four-eyed monster."

Her eyes widened. "Take that back."

He stretched his arms and made himself comfortable on the free end of the couch. "I won't. Did I offend you, my lovely Lina?"

"You're so annoying, Mahad."

"So I've been told."

Their bickering would've continued had there not been another knock at the door.

"Are you expecting someone?"

"The only thing I'm expecting is an explanation from you. Stay put."

Alina warned him as she made her way to the door once again. Her heart lurched in her throat finding Osama standing there.

"Hi."

He whispered uncertainly and took a step forward. She searched his face. Tired eyes and worn-out countenance. He didn't flare better than her and it broke her heart some more.

"Yo, Sam!"

Mahad's voice from behind her broke the trance both of them were in. Osama's eyes narrowed at Mahad. "What the hell is he doing here?" He asked Alina but the question had reached Mahad loud and clear. "Got a problem with that, Sam?"

Osama came forward. "Yes."

"I don't care. You look like shit by the way. If I didn't know better, I'd think you're high as a kite."

Osama didn't grace it with a reply. He just looked at Alina who immediately moved aside to let him in.

"Mahad came here to apologize to you, actually."

She announced.

"Did I?" Mahad asked, trying his best to stifle his laughter. Alina nodded stiffly and made him stand in front of Osama.

"But I didn't even know he was going to be here, Lina. A loophole in the plot."

That earned him a jab from her. Mischief danced in his eyes as he regarded Osama. "But she's right, Sam. I'm sorry about what I said."

He was not. And Osama knew why. If it weren't for his comment that day, Osama would've never been here.

"Yeah, okay. Get lost now."

"Don't sweat it."

Mahad mock-saluted him and as he passed Alina by, gave her a kiss on the cheek. Osama waited for him to get out of there patiently but the bastard took his time. As soon as the sound of his car zooming away reached them, Osama looked at Alina. Her eyes were already on him.

Silently, he followed her inside as both of them stood in the lounge.

"Alina-"

"He was not wrong, you know. You do look like you could do with some sleep."

"I'm fine."

"Hardly."

Tentatively, she raised her hand and took off his glasses. "See, you need some, sleep, Osama."

"First I need to tell you something."

He diminished the distance between them. Alina's gaze didn't waver from his face.

"Mahad is an ass but he wasn't wro-"

"He was. You are not selfish, Osama."

"But I never tried as well."

"Tried what?"

He looked downward and slowly, held her hand in his. "To know your side of the story. And not for my sake. But yours."

Alina was tongue-tied, aware of nothing but a tear that rolled down her cheek. Her side of the story. Would take some time. There was so much she had to tell him. But how to muster the courage? How to-

He gently brushed his finger on her cheek. His hand didn't fall back to his side after that. "Tell me, Alina. And I promise, I'll listen. No judgment. Nothing about me. Just you and what you never told me."

Another tear. His fingers barricaded it.

Courage. Yes. A familiar touch. An anchor. Enough.

"Okay."

A broken whisper.

"Are you sure?"

He pulled his hand away but Alina didn't let him. With his hand in hers, she reaffirmed.

"Yes, I'm."

The surety shone through each syllable.

Osama nodded, contended with her answer. "As much I'd love for us to talk right away, I think you and I both need some rest."

"You need it more than anyone."

He ran a finger through his hair and tried to get his glasses from her. "I'm fine. Just a couple of sleepless nights. Nothing serious."

"Driving will be."

"It's not a biggie. I can call Uncle Ashraf."

His parents' driver. Alina saw him scrolling his phone all the while massaging his temples.

The decision was made in a moment.

"Stay here."

Osama's thumb hovered over the contact. His eyes collided with Alina's. Her hold on his glasses tightened, not enough to break them but firm to not return them.

"I won't fit there."

He pointed at her couch. Alina looked behind her. He wouldn't. And unlike him, she didn't have a spare room.

But her mind was set and that was a non-issue.

Pain relief for the headache, a calm room to relax, and semi-darkness, Alina settled everything as per his liking and the result was in front of her. It took him ten minutes but he was sound asleep in her bed.

She ran her fingers in his hair and bent down to kiss his forehead. As she came out of her room and sat down on the couch in the lounge, the implications of her own heart's treacheries once again became clear to her.

Someone else?

As if the man lost in his dreamland in her room left the valley of her heart ever for someone else. There was not even an inch vacant.

Never was.

𝄞

An annual food festival to kickstart her journey with EFvent, the beginning couldn't have been more apt for Sila. She knew good food and what it meant for the citizens of this metropolis. So, her homework came in handy. She had covered several such events under AJ though the scale wasn't as grand. This was her domain and she'd be damned if she didn't let her expertise shine through it all.

"Dawat" as the name suggested, was the collective effort of 130 food partners and EFvent. The venue was a rented open space in Clifton. Sila worked tirelessly with her team comprising of event specialists and food service experts. From the venue to the marketing, the official logo, the vendors, logistics, budgeting, and advertising; everything had to be impeccable, and if Sila's hard work was to go by, it was.

On D-day, she stood in the middle of the venue, overseeing everything for the one last time, before the crowd rushed inside. So, far so good. She gave her time a high five and it began.

For the next couple of hours, she didn't have time time to even run a hand through her hair to settle it.

The event would go till ten at night but the reception in a few hours told them what they needed to know, it was going to be a success. The thought alone gave Sila the giddiness. It was a long time coming.

Around 6'o clock, she was standing in her designated spot, scrolling the list provided to her by a junior on the team when she looked up and for the first time in hours, her lips broke into a genuine smile, the reasons for which were purely personal.

"You guys are late!"

She stood with her arms akimbo. Aahil raised his in surrender. "Ask these rockstars. They made me wait for half an hour in the car."

"It was just Zain, Chachi! He took an hour for getting ready." Arsh explained it to her lest she should think all of them were tardy. A dent in the impression their Chachi had of them? Unacceptable. Sila settled his lopsided glasses as he ranted about his younger brother.

"A man has to look good. Not my fault if Arsh the stinker doesn't know it." Zain said with an air of royalty. Aahil opened his mouth to humble him but Sila effortlessly stopped him. He could only grumble.

"And the effort shows. Not that you already don't look good, Zain."

The loudmouthed Chutka accepted the praise as if his birthright. The confidence could send a certain Jahangir packing, who stood to the side, not very pleased but what could he possibly do?

"I want ice cream! The yellow cone! And the pink one too!" Hanah put her demand forth. Sila bent down and as usual, pulled her curls out of her face. "Your Mamu will get you that shortly. Is this the same dress you showed me over the video call?"

Hanah nodded, twirling around so Sila could have a better look.

"That's enough flexing, honeypie. You'll give everyone around a complex." Aahil held her hand, effortlessly stopping her movements. Hanah giggled, making Sila smile as well.

"Let's get you ice cream, Hanah." Arsh being the responsible big brother, took Hanah and Zain toward the nearest ice cream stall.

"Have fun!" Both Aahil and Sila saw them stopping in the small queue of kids, waiting for their turn.

"So, what do you think?"

Sila asked him, pointing around. He gave the ambiance a critical look and turned to her. "Just say you're fetching for compliments."

Your compliments. Her heart whispered.

"But it looks great. I'm yet to tour around but the crowd vouches for the success of this event. Was the entrance your idea?"

She nodded.

"Too good. That alone gets one in a festive mood."

"Thank you. You better take a look around and see everything for yourself."

"That I will." Saying that he handed her the shopping bag. Sila took it with confusion written on her face.

"I can bet you didn't eat properly so you better."

"You're spoiling me!"

"Am I? I don't know but you need to eat. When do you get free from here?"

Sila had already opened the container and took a bite of the sandwich. She just realized how famished she was. Aahil gave her an I-Told-You-So look but she ignored it.

"The event concludes at 10. I will be free by 11 and by midnight, at home hopefully."

"Okay then. I'll pick you up."

"Hey! I'm fully capable of getting home on my own."

"When did I say you aren't? The thing is Sila, you are the best at so many things but the only avenue I have going for me where I do have some scope is being a good husband so let me be."

"Okay, fine, my good husband. Come pick me up at 11."

"What about a long drive and Coffee from Delli's after that? My treat."

Gosh, indeed a good husband. "Sounds like a plan."

"That's what I thought. The bacha party has their ice cream cones in their hands and that's my cue to leave. You don't need it anymore but all the best. This is going great and will end the same way as well."

He had taken just a step away when Sila called him. "And Aahil!"

"Hun?"

She grinned. "Not just the kids but you too, have fun!"

He returned her smile. "It's organized by my wife, Sila. I'm the VIP so of course, I will have fun."

Such a dork. She thought and the realization that these thoughts were no longer colored with resignation made her feel light as a feather.

𝄞

As expected, the event concluded at ten on a high note. Sila and the other team members took care of the mess till eleven. There was no fuss whatsoever and everything wrapped up smoothly. As Sila came out of the venue, her spirits were high. Another successful event under her belt. The first at her new workplace. Elma visited them late in the evening and if her pleased smile was to go by, she liked the overall picture. Though Sila had an early morning meeting with her she was sure that'd go as smoothly as this event did.

She slung her purse over her shoulder and came to the parking lot. That time, she hesitated to let Aahil come and get her but now she realized it was a need. Her car was in the EFvent parking lot. She left it there as they came to the event site in the van with the essentials. So, Aahil had to pick her up. He was on his way, his text told her as such. So, she stood, waiting.

It was barely five minutes when she heard footsteps behind her. An alarm went off in her head and a feeling of unease crept up on her bare arms. She shuddered even though the mild Summer night didn't allow for it.

On instinct, she tried to turn around only to get blinded by the strike on the back of her head. The impact made her stagger on her feet.

"Told you, I'll get you one day, bitch. Seems like the day is today."

Arsalan Afindi's raspy voice echoed in her ears. She fluttered her heavy lids to see if it was really him and as she did so, the sinister smile on his face gave him away instantly, even though her vision wasn't the best.

"Run now. Or call that boyfriend of yours. Do it quickly because I'm in the mood for some violence. Had to stay sober all day for this."

Instant panic gripped Sila. Forgetting about her pain, she started to look for an opening to escape. This side of the parking lot faced away from the main entrance so someone finding her here was on chance, especially when the junior staff was already gone. She was one of the last to leave the premises.

She took a hurried step back but that made Arsalan laugh out loud as he once again cornered her. "Not so quick, sweets. I'm not done with you yet. You humiliated me twice. I will take everything in double installments."

The pain in her head had subsided to some extent. The bastard knew what he was doing, he didn't strike to send her out cold. He did so she'd slow down and he'd enjoy her struggle.

She had to think fast. Aahil was on his way. If she just managed to get run away from him, she'd be safe.

Arsalan's hawk-like gaze was settled on her. "No one's coming, eh?"

"He's here. Right behind you, see."

And the fool did. Providing Sila with the opening she was looking for. Her hand went inside her bag and took out the pepper spray. Arsalan immediately faced her again only to have his eyes sting and his whole face burn.

"YOU BITCH!"

She didn't look behind after that. In a mad dash, she covered the parking lot and came onto the main road. More people were there but her eyes immediately collided with the one face she was in frantic need of. God, she had desperately prayed for him to get here as soon as possible.

Aahil had also seen her and almost instantly, his face darkened. She could cry right there with relief and maybe she was. She couldn't be sure. It was all a blur.

"Sila? What the hell happened?"

Aahil's voice and then his arms. Yes, she was safe now.

"Sila?!" He patted her face.

Sila pointed in the direction of the parking lot and before she could utter a word more, darkness fell over her.

𝄞

The next few hours were a blur for her. She was certain she came back to her senses on the way to the hospital and then once more on the examination bed. But the confusion shifted only when Aahil placed her on their bed in their room.

"Easy. You're all okay now." Aahil put the duvet over her when Sila held his hand. "Is it bad? My head."

"A concussion. Nothing to be worried about."

She sighed touching the back of her head. The area was tender to touch. But she'd live.

"It was Arsalan Afindi. He-"

Aahil placed his finger on her lips. "I know. You did so well even with a concussion. But I've taken over from here, Sila. Just sleep now. Leave it up to me."

He caressed her face. Sila wanted to say more but thought against it. She closed her eyes. The touch of his lips to her temple worked like a lullaby.

𝄞

On his way to flee, Arsalan was spotted by Aahil outside the building. Sila's unconscious form and his appearance; even a fool could also put two and two together and Aahil was no fool. He also wasn't a nobody, much to Arsalan's dismay. When Aahil drove off toward the hospital with Sila, Arsalan slipped into his own vehicle to escape.

Not so fast.

He was arrested outside his residence and since then all attempts of his senator father to get him released went in vain. An FIR was lodged against him, the charges were of attempted murder, and with the Jahangirs' direct involvement, Arsalan and his father couldn't do much.

Sila placed her phone on the side table and putting the duvet aside, left the bed. It had been a day since that incident. And even though she stayed in bed for the most part of it, her phone didn't see peace for even a second.

The Jahangirs were the first ones to visit as soon as she was in better spirits. Then came the girls and Mrs. Wadia. There were loud curses for Arsalan and the expectation that he wouldn't be left off the hook and deserved a trial and imprisonment. Alina, Osama, Mahad, Danish, Reen's family, Bushra Auntie, and Dareer. Ammi, Muaz Bhai, and even Abu. Sila could say with conviction that it had been one of the busiest days of her life even though, she was glued to her bed (Dork husbands can get demanding when they want to be, she figured).

Now that there was some peace, she made her way to the kitchen to get herself a cup of tea.

"I know, Mama. You don't have to worry. Only homemade food for us for as long as Sila's sick."

Aahil paced the length of the kitchen with his phone tucked between his shoulder and ear. Once in a while, he'd glance at the pot of tea on the stove as well.

"What do you mean by that? If you wanted me to have 10/10 cooking skills, should've sent me to a culinary school."

"For God's sake, I know you and my grandmother and her mother and her mother never saw any culinary school, still you guys have taste pouring out of your fingers. That's totally out of topic, for heaven's sake, Mama!"

Sila stood took the stool and rested her head on her palm, enjoying this conversation. His eyes found hers immediately.

"Great, Sila is here. You can ask her yourself."

Without any warning, the phone was thrust into her head. She placed it on her ear with a smile.

"Sila? How do you feel now, Beta?"

"I'm perfectly alright, Auntie."

"Does it hurt? Your head."

"Just a little bit."

"May God destroy that devil in the garb of a human. Your quick senses prevented so much from happening. I shudder to think what would've happened if you hadn't shown the presence of mind."

Ah, that also. Somehow everyone made sure that she knew how brave she was for using her pepper spray on time. Aahil was the first one to do so and she believed it, fully. Her little diversion and subsequent daring had literally saved her life.

"I was just telling that to Aahil but your fridge is stocked with homemade food. I brought some with me when I came over. You were fast asleep that time so I didn't want to disturb you. Still, if you want anything, you ought to call me. Don't ask Aahil. His cooking sucks. He can't be trusted with something as simple as an omelet. You don't need culinary school for that. You need common sense."

Sila pressed her palm to her lips lest her giggle gives her away. Aahil's poured their tea into two mugs pretending his mother was talking about the neighbor's son.

"Now you take some rest, okay? I'll visit in the afternoon. Don't worry about work. Elma knows what happened. Faseeh called her. She was very accommodating."

"Okay, Auntie. Thank you so-"

"I'm hanging up, Sila. You're now talking gibberish."

The call ended. Maybe it was the warmth she was surrounded with or the feeling of familial security but her eyes welled up.

"Your tea and cookies as you...Sila?"

She shook her head. "I'm okay. Just a bit emotional. PMSing."

"You're not. You were PMSing at the beginning of the month. What it is?"

She didn't meet his eye so holding her from her chin, he made her look at him. "Does it hurt?"

"No. I'm okay now. It's just...this is different from what I'm used to."

The vulnerability that shone in her eyes pierced Aahils' heart. "Different how?"

She sighed. "It's the third time Arsalan attacked me. When it happened for the first time, a bunch of other girls were also involved. We were covering an event and he misbehaved under the influence. When I kicked him out, he tried to attack but fortunately, people intervened. We complained to the higher-ups and as soon as we did, Ajwa started getting threatening calls from his father. Everyone involved took a step back as no one wanted to take it up with influential people. I tried to stand my ground when one girl on the team stopped me. Do you know what she said to me? She said: Sila, you, of all of us, should be extra careful. Tumhare to agay peeche bhi koi nahi hai. (You have no immediate family to rely on). And it hit me how right she was. My extended family was miles away in Murree and even if they weren't, I would never bother them with my problems. The girls are as unfortunate as me. Amal and Reen still know what a family is, especially Reen but me and Haleh don't. Banu Auntie is a mother figure to us but we can't repay her for her generosity by pulling her into our mess. And my Mamu's is out of the question."

It was too much. She'd never said all this to anyone before. Her immediate response was to try to get out of his hold but he didn't let her.

"Two of those three times Arsalan attacked you were on my watch. The last time it happened, we were pulled into that Jatoi fiasco the next morning so it slipped my mind. Shouldn't have. He dared to repeat the same mistake and now whatever happens to him is my responsibility. You'll never have to worry about him again. You were so brave but I promise you, Sila. You'll never have to the brave again."

His thumb slowly caressed the soft skin on her cheek. "For your every joy, every success, every setback, and every worry, I'm here Sila. It feels a bit narcissistic to tell you that I'm your family now and whatever I bring with me is as much mine as it is yours but that's the truth. You are my family. One of the most important parts of my life. That official paper that we signed wasn't for show. It tied us into this bond, Sila. All yours is mine to take care of and I will. I promise you that. You will never feel alone again, or inadequate enough to stand for what you believe in. You'll always have me by your side."

He dipped his head and kissed the corner of her mouth as if sealing a promise. It was a gentle touch, nothing heated about it. Just him ensuring her that he meant what he said.

But it wasn't enough for Sila. Nor was it for Aahil. The gulp in her throat on their proximity, the eyes boring into each other, and what he had said just now.

Too much. Vulnerability and Want. Exposed as the sky outside.

Sila was the first to move. Or it was Aahil. They didn't know. They weren't keeping score.

All they knew were the soft yet frantic union of their lips. Her arms were around his neck and his on her waist. Breathing forgotten, the world tuned out, every hurt at bay.

Just them and their world. Each other.

𝄞