*takes a deep breath and screams* look at what I just did. Who was the one who said to write about Sophia. Cause you made me do this. And I am so happy about it 🥺☺️.

***

"Baba?" She called as she enter his office, looking around for him, "Baba Jaani?" (Dad)

"Ji, Baba ki Jaan?" Rohan said, standing from the ground and she immediately holds his hand to help him, "It's not fun to be old. But its good when I look at my children grow".

She frowns, "I don't want you to get old".

It took her a long time before she started addressing him as her father. It wasn't easy. One the trauma even if she doesn't remember it, she can feel it in her. Secondly, Rohan always told her that her father is his brother because he didn't want to lie or create a scenario which later breaks her more.

After years of watching, and she knows for a fact that both- Rohan&Sheila knows that she was always observing them to hurt her in some way she comes to the conclusion that they weren't going to be that way.

When she found that a new child was going to be a part of their life. It took a toll on her. Even when she didn't show her fears, she found herself hiding in the closet and thinking all sorts of things.

But time after time, they proved her wrong. Whenever people told her and force her to think that they (Rohan&Sheila) will turn on her. That they will leave her to be because she isn't their child. They proved her wrong.

The dreams she dreamt came to life. The feelings that she was scared of vanished. Even though she fears of disappointment them after everything they have done. She knows they will be there.

"Kia howa, beti?" Rohan asked, as he looks at her in concern, "Someone said something bad?" (What happened?)

He was always ready to fight for her. Even when he is old and his strength is low she knows he will fight for her.

"Nahi nahi". She said, gulping as the fears builds in her, "Mujhe kuch pochna tha". (No. No) (I wanted to ask something)

"Phir pocho". (Then ask)

"Agar galat mohabbat ho jaye toh phir kia karna chahiyeh?" (If you fall in wrong love what should you do?)

"Dafan kar do". He said, smiling, "Galat ya koi bhi mohabbat ka jub tk janaza nahi uthao gi tub tk takleef mai raho gi. Ek dafa yakeen ho jaye k dafan ho gayi hai aur wapisi ka koi zariya nahi toh phir us per sabr a jata hai".

(Bury it) (If you don't bury the wrong or any love you will be in pain. Once you see its end and you know that it won't come back again only then you can get patience to get over it)

"Jaise apko a gaya?" (Like how you did?)

"Haan. Jaise mujhe aya hai". He said sadly, "Per is ka yeh matlab nahi k takleef nahi ho gi. Takleef hoti rahy gi".

(Yes, like how I got patience) (But that doesn't mean it won't hurt. It will hurt)

"Mujhe kaise pata chaly ga k konsi mohabbat saachi hai, Baba? Mai jaha dekhoon aur jis ko dekhoon sub ek jaise hain".

(How will I know which love is right and wrong? I watch everywhere and everyone is the same)

He shakes his head, "Yeh baat saach hai k ab duniya kai wafadar logo ki kaami hai. Jis ki waja se mai hameshah kahta hoon k apne elawa kisi per barosa na karna". He holds his wedding picture, with a smile, "Per mohabbat khud apna rasta dhoodh layti hai. Jub saachi mohabbat ho toh us ko haraam se halal karny mai khoof nahi hota. Jub saachi mohabbat ho toh us ishq mai takleef nahi hoti. Azmaishein toh sub ko milti hai per un azmaish mai ap akele nahi hoty. Saachi mohabbat kabhi bhi ap se akele imtehan nahi layti".

(It is true that there are very few faithful people. That's why I always say to trust no one but yourself) (But love finds it way to you. When you are truly in love you won't be afraid/hesitant to turn it to marriage. When it is true love, it won't hurt. Yes there will be trails but you won't be alone in them. True love never takes tests from you all alone)

"What if I disappoint you?"

"Because you loved Amir?"

Her eyes widened, "You knew?"

He chuckles, "I know everything, beta. I know when you are happy and when you are sad. I know what makes you sad too well. I can see in your eyes even when you try to smile around us".

"I-I am sorry-".

"Don't. You didn't commit any sin by liking someone. I trust you, Sophia. I trust you to know where our religious limits stand. I won't ask you to confess what and why you did it". He said, smiling, placing the picture on the table, "But I hate to see you suffering and I hate that you think you are weak. I know for a fact love or not, you are an amazing child. I am a man but I will tell you this- don't ever let a man make you weak. If he does, that's not the man for you. A real man will let you bloom and watch from the side while protecting you. He will never intentionally cause you pain. Thrones come with every flower but not everyone gets hurt from it. You need to realise your worth before you decide to let anyone in".

"Everyone mocks you that you didn't get me married and I am 31".

He laughs, "Does it look like I care? I got married when I was 32 and your mother (Sheila) was 31. We never cared. We don't even listen to those people. They weren't there when we got hurt, need help, or was sick. Why in the world will we hear them when it is a decision of your life?"

She nodded, with a smile, "I hope you are proud of me".

"You don't have to do anything to make us proud. We will always be proud of you if you just be happy".

She grins.

She learns to live because of them. She learns to laugh with them.

She exits his office when she finds him taking out the album which has all their family pictures. She knows for a fact that he will cry and she didn't want to witness that.

She always imagines him as a strong man and somewhere in her mindset men don't cry notion stays. But her father (Rohan) never hesitate to show his emotions. Happy, sad, or any other emotions were always there. Just that he never let his emotions ruin them. He never projected them on his family.

A true man.

A gem as she thinks. She has never seen someone as amazing as him. Often when she hoped to have a love story like them- Sheila told her to not wish for it. That she didn't see what they had before each other. Sheila always said that the happiness they have now is a result of struggles. That she doesn't wish that for Sophia.

If she can have such happiness she will love to have struggles.

Some love stories are just so beautiful in fantasy and some are simple and beautiful in reality. We just need to look past the bad examples that are common to those rare stories that exist. And learn from them to spread what they have in our lives.

She enters her office greeting her colleagues as she went to her desk.

Being a senior auditor is not an easy job. At first, she was spectacular because it was a full-time job. Even when she went home, she was on her laptop. Sheila always said that she can do what makes her excited just that she still spends time with her family so she has no regrets.

She understands why Sheila always said that now. Even when life was busy for them (Rohan&Sheila) they always had time to guide, help and care for her. They both had a full-time job but they never once neglect her needs.

She continues her work throughout the day when lunch came is when her assistant informed her that someone was waiting for her outside. She picks her coat as she went to the waiting area which is not exactly a good place to sit. The chairs are uncomfortable and since it is for outsiders there isn't even an air conditioner.

"Baba". She gasped as she runs to him, watching as she struggles to stand, "Why did you come here? You should have called me? You know your health is not good. I would have taken an early off. Or you should have called me when you came here. Why didn't you tell my assistant that you are my father?"

She said it all in one breath because she didn't like this. He is always placing himself in tough situations that can be avoided. She doesn't like that he stresses himself at such an age. The doctor already said his heart is weak. And she is not ready for another loss.

He smiles, gently, "I know you didn't eat anything and knowing you, I know you will not eat anything. I got you homemade food".

She was ready to cry. She had an addiction to homemade food. Maybe it's the warmth she always felt when they ate together in her younger days. Maybe it's the wholesomeness she witnessed in those days.

"Baba". She said, gulping her tears, "Why do you always do this?"

"You are my daughter. I need to take care of you".

"I am old enough to take care of you now. You should let me do it".

He smiles, "You will never be old enough for me. I still see a three years old who called my name for the first time to seek my comfort".

She bites on her tongue to not burst into tears in the middle of her office.

She smiles, holding his hand, "Since you are already here. You need to see your daughter's progress".

Even after he said he didn't want to do it. She drags him inside introducing him to everyone and her assistant was shocked and she did warn her to never let him stay in that place again. She opens the door to her office and watches the pride in his eyes. The utter happiness of watching his child succeed. The same happiness she finds in his eyes even when she did a bare minimum. Just like how once she took part in a race and ended in the last position yet he was so proud of her.

He presented her with gifts and praises for a month. Even Sheila shakes her head whenever he will come home with another gift for a month. But Sheila never stops him. Because ever so slightly she will place congratulations cookies for her in her room every day. They were both the same but different.

He sits on her chair after she basically pushed him on it. She sits in front as they start to eat. She always finds her father simply watching them eat. She realises that the joy in watching someone else enjoying because of you is wholesome.

She heard a knock on her door as her assistant came in, "Ma'am, your next client is here".

"I should leave". Rohan said and she shakes her head, "No. I have to go pick your sister now. I will see you at home".

Just as he exits she found a big new client.

Yasir Rumi.

He was an industrialist at the age of 33 and auditing his companies was a big deal. Though he has been a client of her senior for years, he was new to her. Her senior retired last year and this is the first time she will have to take over this big project. It excites her.

"Please send him in". She said as she sits on her chair, looking through his files

Her assistant, hesitated, "He didn't come here. He sent his brother".

The door opens as his brother- Rauf Rumi enters with his assistant and she greets him. After a few minutes of plain introduction, she finally starts with the business.

Rauf was easy going as she wants to think. He did deviate a few times in their discussion but she manage to get through him. She really didn't like speaking about anything other than business with anyone. She has a small circle of people she trusts which mostly involved her family and her parent's friends.

"I will be visiting your company tomorrow to officially sign with Mr. Yasir if he is available that is". She spoke as she closes the files

Rauf nodded, "You can come by at 7 AM and we can start immediately".

"But we don't-". Her assistant started but she cuts her off

"I will be there". She said with a professional smile as Rauf looks a little taken back but manage to cover it

"Why did you agree?" Her assistant asked, confused because they don't start work until 8 AM

"They wanted to trust our loyalty to them". She shrugged because she can read people at least in a business sense

"Mr. Amir will be visiting along with you". Her assistant said sighing, "I honestly don't know why him".

"Let it be".

She knows her assistant knows about the way she feels towards Amir. Maybe just maybe she can bury it after all. She just isn't ready yet. Her father words always are a guide to her.

"You should look at who Yasir Rumi is". Her assistant said, sighing, "You really need to start learning about business icons".

"My job requires that I don't develop anything towards my clients. That is why I don't acknowledge them just understand their business". She said shrugging, "Can you inform my driver? I will speak to Baba later".

"Today I saw you famous dad. He still is so handsome".

She gagged, "I don't think I want to hear something like that about my father".

"Oh shut up". Her assistant said, "Most of our Asian men just depreciate when they get old. It is fun to see some good looking ones".

"He has a heart disease".

"Well someone as handsome as him can give me heart disease too".

"Ew". She said disgusted, "Get out, Sneha".

She went home late at night as she enters she found the television still on and the low sound coming from it. She finds her father sleeping with a blanket and the table in front of him had food that turned cold. As usual.

She sighs.

She sits beside him, quietly eating the food knowing that he will worry more if she didn't eat anything. He often has her eat twice if she skips one meal. He never compromised on their health. Just like whenever they get sick. Sheila was calmer but he always loses his mind. He will stay beside them all night and day. He will feed all sorts of food and supplements even when Sheila always says that they were already sick so supplements won't do much.

She shakes her head, as she remembers how they used to have late nights in this place. This house was always magic.

She went to her room after checking on her sheep in the backyard. They got a small place where they have a family of sheep. The one Sheila got her was a female sheep and later they got a male for it. Now they have children who are also of age. She thinks that she should let them go and live in their farmhouse because they were too old and busy to take care of them now.

She saw the butterfly hanging from her ceiling as she lay down. This butterfly often fell and broke. Sheila said it only shows that it can mend and work again. Just how life is. So with scars on it that are taped, it is still there as new as when it first came in.

She speaks with her secretary as she enters the premises of his office. She finds his assistant waiting for her as he navigates her towards his office. She can feel his presence evidently throughout the place even before she meets him.

"Sir is a little busy". His assistant said anxiously, "Can you wait in the other meeting room?"

"No problem". She said as she saw the assistant sigh in relief, it is no use creating trouble for others

She enters the meeting area as she takes her laptop out and goes directly to work on her other clients. She has five clients for who she is working. Most of them are high class.

She heard the door opening and that has happened a couple of times when people came in to offer her snacks.

"I don't want anything. Thank you". She said as she looks briefly at the man and went back to her work

"I am sure I am not here to offer anything". He said as she frowns looking at him

"Who are you?"

She finds Rauf standing beside the man and he looks between them with wide eyes.

"This is my older brother. Yasir Rumi". Rauf said smiling almost amused

She nodded, "I am sorry for not realising. I am Sophia".

"I am sorry for the delay. If you take a seat please so we can start". Yasir said smiling as he sits in the middle and she sits on his left side

She takes the document from her assistant who was throwing dreamy eyes at Yasir and she rolls her eyes.

"These are the documents which I sent to your assistant for approval". She explained and she continues to focus on the task

Yasir leans back after he watches her leave and he finds his brother eyes following behind her.

He slaps his head, "I told you to respect women".

"I didn't say anything to her".

"You don't have to, Rauf. Your eyes were piercing her. It is not right to violate someone. Women can feel someone wrong eyes on them and that is something they shouldn't feel".

"Sorry".

"Apologize to the woman yourself. And be sure that it doesn't happen again or I will throw you out so she doesn't feel insecure".

"I am your brother".

"Not in business. We are all working and we all need to respect each other".

"But you can feel she is something".

"Firstly she is not a thing". Yasir sighed because his brother just never learns, "Secondly she is an amazing woman and I will warn you again to not come in her way. She is here to work and we need her work. Be respectful".

But as he said it he can't deny the fact. The difference in her aura was refreshing. He has seen many women who are passionate about their work. They all have amazing personalities and they all have amazing professional attitudes.

But there was something she has and he won't be finding it. He just doesn't like to invade anyone just because he is curious. That is disrespectful. And if she brings his attention to her, he needs to stay away. He needs to control his emotions and not let them on her.

He sits in his office as he watches her work on the large paperwork for hours. That was until another man came in.

"Oh, you are here". She said, nodding at Amir, "I got through their early months in work. You can start from July".

"You are already done with the rest?"

"It's almost 4 PM". She stated, plainly

"Right. I am sorry-".

"Just get to work".

Amir nodding taking the paperwork. She feels that she wants to look at him again but she shouldn't. She needs to stop this. These feelings are wrong.

Amir was her university classmate. They have studied together. It was about 2 years ago that Amir called her for a job and she helped him. Amir was always sweet towards her and maybe she interpreted it too much. Because now Amir has another woman who has his heart.

"Actually". Amir said and before he can speak she heard someone calling her name

She turns to Yasir who was waiting for her to choose who she wants to listen to first.

"How can I help you, Sir?" She asked as she stands from her place

"I heard your father was in the same field as me". Yasir said and he researched her

She nodded, "Yes. He handed it over to my younger sister. Why?"

"I would like to meet him if it is ok". He said, placing his hand in his pocket, "I admire his work. I still admire your sister's work too. Just that he is someone like a--".

"Legend. Guide and a person with experience". She said, smiling because she likes when someone talks about her father, "I can arrange it when I get home. I need to see he is ok with it".

"Perfect". His smile widened at the thought of meeting his mentor, "I never had a chance to greet him before. It will be a pleasure and a huge favour to me".

"He will love it too". She said smiling, "I should get back to work. I will let you know when".

Yasir nodded still standing on the same spot as she went back to work. There was something off. The way she started to act after this man appears was something that bothers him. Even he saw how the man cast a few glances at her and they were not right in any way. He should be leaving the office because he has an appointment but he didn't want to leave them alone because all of his employees will leave in a few minutes.

So, instead, he stayed in his office where he can see them clearly.

"I was going to say something earlier". Amir said and she frowns, "You didn't even ask again".

"We are working, Amir. I don't see any reason for me to remember that you wanted to speak to me unless it is about work".

"It is important". Amir said and she sighs as she was stuck at one of the documents and he is really annoying her

"It can wait". She said as she looks around to find no one until she heard the phone of her desk ring and Yasir asking her to come to his office

She takes the document walking towards his office. She has seen how he is working effortlessly and his employees only praise him.

"You are still here". He said even when he already know that she is here

She smiles, tightly, "I tend to lose time when I am working".

"Understandable". He said softly, "Please, take a seat and let me know what I can help you with?"

She places the document in front of him, "Something is missing from this entry. Can you double-check for me? It should be in your records".

"Do you want me to call my manager?"

"Oh no. It is already late. Maybe they can be accessed through your computer? If it is a trouble, I can do it tomorrow with your manager".

"No. No. Let me log in and you can see through the record". He said smiling

She works for another two hours and this time it was in his office and he was simply there, watching. He heard her phone ringing and she didn't even faze as he divert her attention.

"Ji, Baba". Her voice was so soft as she continues to provide her father with updates as if he understands all the work she is doing, "Don't even think about sleeping late and waiting for me. I promise when I come in I will let you know. Please Baba, no staying late".

Then he heard her sighs and she turns to him as she remembers, "Oh, Baba you have a fan".

He couldn't help but chuckle when she smiles widely at the next words, "Yeah. Yeah. I know you are still famous. Very happy for you. Now, he wants me to meet you". She pauses, "Tomorrow is good?" She asked him and he nodded, "Ok. He will be there. Don't cook everything in the fridge. Bye".

She smiles as she places her phone back on the table, "Sorry. He is just like that".

"It's refreshing". He shrugged, "I didn't expect to see this side of him. But it is fun to see it".

She groans, "Please. Don't let him show this side when you meet him. But something tells me that he will be going overboard".

He smiles, shaking his head, "He sounds like an amazing father".

"He is one". She said with pride, "He is the best father I can ever ask for".

"He doesn't mind you staying this late".

"He does. Not because he doesn't trust me but because he doesn't trust the world. He did make me capable of defending myself by teaching me all sort of martial arts at a young age but he still fears the world for me".

"Everyone does".

"Not everyone. Some ruin it for you, personally". She said bitterly when she remembers her real father, "But I guess we find good in the end".

She heard a knock as she turns to find Amir.

"What can I do for you?" She asked, nonchalant and he looks between them

"I was leaving. I wanted to catch up before I leave". Amir said as he walks in with an envelope, "I am getting married".

She halts. She didn't even react when he place the envelope in front of her. She just blankly stares at it.

"I wanted to invite you". Amir said smiling and then he turns to Yasir, "And you too, if possible".

"I will be there". He said before he can think and he has no idea why he agreed to it

Amir nodded as he excuses himself and she simply went back to work. After an hour of continuous typing, she closes her laptop.

"It's time to leave or my Baba will probably stay awake longer". She said, placing her laptop in her bag as she went to take the envelope and sigh

"Ok. I will see you tomorrow".

"Sure. I will send you my address-".

"Will it be creepy if I know your address?" He asked, rubbing the back of his neck nervously and she raises her eyebrows, "I mean I have heard about your mother and her designing of your house. It is famous because your father always speaks so highly of her and her work".

"She was amazing. The house is one amazing piece to look at her".

"I have heard a lot about her. My neighbour house was designed by her".

"She manages to create some of the best designs".

"I would have loved to meet her".

"I am sure". She said smiling lightly, "See you tomorrow".

After he was sure that she was on her way he decided to finally leave. He enter his house which was quiet as usual. There was nothing of memories in this place. It's just empty and silent.

Because his parents died when he was 18 and even before that they never took much interest in their growth. They just were too professional even with their own children. They died in an accident while coming from a party. Hence, he despises parties and he agrees to one. God, he is an idiot.

Since tomorrow is the weekend, he decided to work on the few remaining files. He was nervous to meet her father. He didn't want to embarrass himself.

He was running around his wardrobe to find a suitable suit for the dinner.

"You acting like someone who is going to a date". His brother scoffed, "Then again you have never been to one".

"If you want to help, stay and if not get out of my room, Rauf".

His brother rolled his eyes taking out a few clothes, "These should be good".

"Thanks".

"Well, I want you to look good in front of my sister-in-law at least and of course her father. You almost embarrassed yourself yesterday".

"I did no such thing".

"You didn't move an entire two minutes after opening the damn door of the meeting room. And your eyes were trained on her. Good thing she was focused on her work".

He threw a file at his brother who ran away laughing, "Next meeting I am going with you to finalise your marriage date".

"Stop your shipping".

"I won't".

He decided to take some sweets with him. In the end, he ended with more than just sweets. He had fruits, sweets and a few flowers.

He nervously ran a hand through his hair as he rings the bell. The door opens to the youngest daughter- Afia standing with a smile.

"It's nice to meet you. Please come in". Afifa said as she moves to the side allowing him to enter, "He is here".

He turns to find the man he had heard in news and events. His face was older yet the aura wasn't any old. He had a graceful warm smile he had never seen on many faces around him.

"You got a bonus point for bringing pink flowers". Rohan said and as he hugs Yasir who could feel his heart beating loudly, "Although my daughters won't let me eat any sweets".

He smiles, genuinely, "I am a huge fan of your work".

"I have heard. Come and have a seat". Rohan said as he sits on the couch

His eyes turn to the other couch where he finds Sophia invested in her work as usual. But for once she was in different attire. She wasn't wearing western instead she was wearing a simple traditional dress and he can't move his eyes from her.

He heard a throat clearing and he slap himself internally turning to her father who didn't say much but he can see his protecting shield on display.

He continued to talk about business and on-off they spoke about life. He did learn a lot from him.

"I remember when she went to school for the first time". Rohan laughs as Sophia groans, "We were so nervous about it. We almost decided to take her back. Sheila said she was still young. And while we were busy discussing that, she went to the school by herself".

"Baba". She groans as she heard that story a thousand times already and her sister stupid whispering was even more annoying about how Yasir kept throwing glances at her

"What?" Rohan said chuckling, "You don't even know how much we panicked that we lost you. Only to find out that you found your teacher from the guide we got from school and you were already in your class".

"She sounds like a good kid". He commented

"Too good. Sometimes we hoped she did more of the things that were not allowed".

He looks at his father almost in shock because when he used to get in trouble he was punished severely for it.

"Let's go for dinner". She announced once their chef said it was done, and she walks to her father to hold his hand and before she could, Yasir held it

"I got it". Yasir said smiling and she nodded walking towards the dining area

Yasir looks at the house, almost in awe of all the things. Even when they were old and not trendy, they all look so good.

"My wife did an amazing work". Rohan said with the hint of sadness and he nodded

After dinner, she went towards the sheep in the backyard. She always comes to them when her mind is everywhere. For now, she has to think about the invite to Amir's wedding which is tomorrow.

Bury the feelings.

Is it easy?

She looks at the sheep as it walks to her once she settles down. She continues to rub the body as it makes sounds.

"I didn't think you have a whole family of sheep here". He said astonished at how well they made the area for them

She chuckled, "That's the thing. My mother knew my love for sheep. She made sure they were around me and taken care of".

"What will you do now?"

She sighs, "I will send them away. Baba can't take care of them. I don't want any stranger to visit our place to take care of them. My sister and I are busy too".

"If you want I can take them". He suggested, "My house caretaker used to work on farms. I am sure he can take care of them".

"But you will have to build a place and it's too much work. I can't allow that".

"It's nothing, really. He said, shrugging, "It will be a good change".

"If you are sure". She said hesitantly as she looks at her sheep

He smiles, "You can visit them with your family whenever you want".

"I can? It won't be trouble?"

"I am sure. Just send me a text so I can alert my guards. Everything else should be fine".

"Thank you so much".

"You're welcome". He said smiling, looking at his watch, "I should leave. I can pick you tomorrow if you want?"

She bites her tongue because she really doesn't want to go. There will be some of her bullies and even when she has a strong front, she doesn't want to go through all that emotional trouble.

"Sure".

He is excited. For the most part, that is. He asked for his father's permission before he asked her about the pickup. He can see the worry in her father eyes whenever he looks at her.

He watches her coming out of the house in a beautiful dress and a similar colour hijab around her head. He took a deep breath trying to stop the fluttering he felt passing through him.

Man, she can have anyone regret not having her. Just as he realise that she is passionate about her work. She is utterly gorgeous too. She is a gem in hiding.

For most of his life, he never saw his future with someone. But he is starting to imagine it now. As he heard all stories of her parents love story and more, he wishes for something similar.

"Chalein?" She asked as she blushed because he just keeps looking at her and he coughs as she spoke and she laughs, "We should leave". (Should we leave?)

He chuckles, "My apologies. I shouldn't be doing that. Please get in". He opens the door for her, calming his heart as he mumbles to himself, "Please don't do anything more embarrassing".

He looks at her father, nodding in acknowledgement of taking care of her tonight. Well, the main reason he was attending this party is her.

Once they entered the venue everyone was gossiping and he watches amused how anytime someone start gossiping around her- she runs away from there. Since he didn't know any people around he stayed by her side.

"God". She said groaning, "These people love to talk".

"Gossiping is the right word". He injected and she nodded

She straightens herself when she finds Maria and a few more walking towards her. She kept her face emotionless as they greeted one another and she saw how their eyes takes in Yasir as a piece of candy. She frowns, disgusted.

Ok. She shouldn't care. He is capable of handling it himself.

"You didn't tell me you have a fiancé now". Maria said

She rolls her eyes, "I don't think I need to inform you about my personal life. And he isn't my fiancé".

"Of course he isn't. He is too good for you".

"According to who?" He said, not liking the way they look and speak to her, "Because the way I see it. She is someone who I don't deserve".

That's when she felt it. The bond. The connection. The feelings.

Assurance. Respect. And peace.

"I-I just mean she is an orphan". Maria said trying to justify her logic, "And her uncle has been carrying the burden-"

"I don't think I have any need to hear about her life or her in general from you". He snapped, "If she wants to share she can and if she doesn't I respect that. I don't think I need you to narrate a messed up story. As far as her uncle is concerned even a blind man can see how much he loves her. And her or her uncle doesn't need your concerns or acceptance to their bond". He turns to her, "Let's greet the bride and groom".

She nodded, almost in a trance as she follows behind him. He didn't realise as she follows him to the bride and groom.

She buried her feeling. The feeling she developed just because she let her heart be weak for someone. She buried them. Amir never made her feel strong or happy. She just made an illusion that he can be a reason for her living. She doesn't need anyone for a living. She needs herself. She made herself proud each day not to fall weak in front of someone who doesn't know her worth.

Because she understands that with the wrong person and with Amir- her feeling was always bothersome. That wasn't love. That can't be love. She has seen her parents love and they were never burdened by it. The right feeling never knocks you down even in tough times.

She grins at Amir who looks taken back, "Congratulations on your wedding. I hope you live a very long happy life".

It wasn't easy. It wasn't meant to be. She developed wrong feelings with the wrong person. And as long as she doesn't close her wound, it won't heal.

"Let's go and eat". She said, smiling at him as he nodded, following behind her

She takes all the food that she loves and sits on the corner table as she enjoys the food. He watches amused at how she elegantly eats her food and how happy she looks while doing it.

He can understand. He has seen how she looks at Amir. He didn't get to this age without seeing a few heartbreaking around him. He didn't wish that for her. But there is no good in hanging on a painful rope. It starts to get poisonous if not let go at the right time. And she let it go.

"When are you planning to marry?" An aunt who she didn't even know before asked

"Not when you ask me to. I will marry when I find a man I want".

"You will get old".

"Better than having a husband who is not even a man". She said, pointing to the aunt husband who was eating like no tomorrow, "I want a man who can handle himself and our responsibilities. Not raising him".

He chuckles as he watches the angry look on the woman's face as she marches off. She wasn't the first woman who asked and wasn't the first who had it turn to her. He just simply enjoys the drama. He knows she is capable of holding her own ground. Just sometimes, everyone wishes for a little push.

"Do you really think I don't deserve you?" She asked, looking at him the next month

And it's been a month since she last saw him. He had an international trip to factories he has in those places. She continued to work on his factories in this place. She did hear her father praising him whenever he calls him to ask about his health. Also, her father might have discreetly shown his interest in him for her. Just once. She knows he won't mention it again because he didn't want to force her.

He smiles, "I believe so".

"Why? Don't you think being an orphan is a bad thing?"

"Being an orphan? I am an orphan, Sophia. Do you think any different of me?" He asked, shaking his head, "It's just the people. The people they want to praise they will and the one they don't want to, they won't. No matter how good you are. It is never about you. It's about them and the wrong thinking". He smiles, "Being an orphan and raising yourself to know the right way of life is something admirable. Your father told me about his brother and what he did. I don't want to tell you what you are worth because it is not my place. But you should know that you have done an amazing job at becoming someone beautiful".

She bites her lips to stop the smile, "Will you mind if I say I want to share the rest of my achievements and life with you?"

She was done with his work. He was no longer her client. She transferred his project to one of the other seniors she works with.

His eyes widened, "I-I- what?"

She blushes, "Will you?"

"Yes". He said grinning, "A thousand times yes".

She looks at her phone where she realised a message from Amir. For the past two months when she told everyone that she will be married soon. She started to receive texts and calls from Amir even at unusual hours at night.

He said he regretted marrying and he did it to only please his family. And that they should still talk and all.

Wrong.

She felt so awful. Yes, she liked him once. But that doesn't mean that she will ruin it for another woman. Imagining the betrayal of knowing that your husband talks to someone else behind your back are terrifying. She doesn't want to be a part of that. If she can't imagine her husband doing something filthy like this and she won't have it that way, why will she do it?

She blocked his number. She asked her team to be sure that he was transferred. Yet he messages from different numbers. She blocks them every time.

"I heard someone say that you are in contact with Amir". Her husband said as they were watching the movie

"What did you say?"

He shrugged, "I told them to keep their mouth shut about you or they will have it bad".

She laughs, "You always do that to everyone who disrespects me".

"Well, how dare they disrespect my Jaan?" He said, placing his head on her shoulder, "I promised you when we got married that you are a part of my existence. I will never let anything bad pass down to you. I promised to shield you from all evil. I respect you too much to hear shit from other people about you".

"What if it is true?"

"I will still not hear it from anyone else, Janum. Why will I listen random people? And why will I trust everyone else besides you?"

She kisses his cheeks, as she explains the whole Amir situation to him.

"Maybe change your number. Or better I can deliver a good punch just for a little warning effect?"

She laughs.

She has been the same way since she married him. He was always there whenever she was down. He would hold her and never let her crumble. He would listen to her for hours and never get tired of her.

She understands why it is important to choose a mature partner and understanding in life. Because in books and fantasy the immature idiots look good but in real life and real situation you need someone strong enough to handle the situations not alone but with you.

"Oh". She said as she turns to look at him, "Mama is coming tomorrow".

"She is done with her project?"

"No. But Baba misses her and vice versa. Plus it is the death anniversary of my grandmother (Rohan's mother). We all loved her too much so we all gather and leave work for a day to simply remember her".

"Your mother is a little scary".

She laughs as she remembers the first time he met her, "She just loves me too much".

"Just like how I love you". He said, kissing her cheeks

"And I love you more".

Her husband always stayed by her side in thick and thin. He never complained about her career and never once made her feel the need to quit. Even at times, when people pressured her, she thought of quitting. But he was always there not allowing her to lose all her hardworking. He managed the house and her in the way no one else could.

And for him, he love the woman too much to ever even think about breaking her heart. She has too much of her influence on him that he can't ever let her go. She consume all of his heart and all he ever needed from her was her presence around him. To know she is there when he was down. When he was stressed and when was happy. He knows she will always be there for him.

In the end, after trials, after false alarms and after understanding the meaning of life. She finds her peace.

Just like her parents.

She looks at her father whispering to her mother who laughs and blushes. But her father never stops his words and his eyes shine in the respect and adoration he has for her.

She turns to find her husband looking at her while he grills the BBQ for them. And she looks at sheep in his backyard that he had her mother design a place for them.

She knows she did it.

She knows she made it.

Her eyes meets her parents who had tears in their eyes as they look at the small bundle wrapped in her arms. Her tears brimmed too because they know they made it. And in the end, they all won against life.

That was them.

Yasir&Sophia.

The end.

*****

No no. It can't be the end. God, I can't help myself. There was so much going on and I can't resist to write about Sophia 🥺🥺. She got her happy ending.

Also, in the end, there were quiet a few things to learn. What did you like or love the most?

For me, personally, I wanted to introduce this idea of partners talking to their "ex" and making it normal. Why? Because I heard a woman tell me how she wished to marry a man who didn't even fight to marry her and after he got married they are still in touch. That their love was true. I was honestly disgusted. That story stayed with me for about two whole years now. Man, I told her how wrong it is and how bad it is for the woman who is now married to that man. They even have children for Godsake (the guy).

Anyways, my rants ends with lots of love to you all. I hope you enjoyed all of these chapters as much as I did.

See you all soon.

Your author,

Faiqa