I am back.

One shot is a very big commitment. It took me 2 days and 2 night to complete this one. But, I am so hyper to share it with you all.

The word count is more than my assignment combined.

10.6K. 😳😳😳

Give your love to these babies of mine. ;)

*****

Nawab Mansur Ali Khan is a well known pashto man in the country. He used to be famous in his time for his handsome face however his brain worked differently from all his siblings which made him a man everyone desired to be.

He has four sons with his beautiful wife married, Nadiya.

They raised their children filled with love and respect and never compromising on their education, religious beliefs and values.

Each of his sons is one year apart from the other. They all excelled in their lives carrying their father empire to vast lands.

Hadi is the firstborn of the prestige family, Raza is the second oldest, Imran is the third and the last favourite son and baby brother is Latif.

"Nawab Sahib". Hadi heard their house worker say from the other side of the door, "The breakfast is ready and everyone is waiting for you".

"I will be down in a minute". He said with authority and from all the other he is the one who is the strictest with everyone

He tied his tie looking at himself and the way his father used to be famous in his days of glory, now that glory is bestowed on him though he never cares about it enough.

He enters the dining room looking at his family waiting for him. He sits on the chair on the right side of his father and all his siblings sitting after him.

"Is something going on?". He asked feeling the atmosphere bit tensed

"We can talk after we are done eating". His father said and everyone followed his order

They all sit in the lounge waiting for his father to speak about the matter so he can leave for work since he has a pile of work delayed.

"Shahqat is arriving with his family tonight". His father stated, "They will be staying with us".

"The whole family?". Raza asked confused because he has never seen them before, "How come they are coming after all these years?. They didn't even come at Dada (grandfather) funeral".

His father sighed, "Those are elder matter, beta. Don't say things you don't have any idea about".

"Who else is coming?". Imran asked curiously

"Since his family is coming after all these years I thought of inviting Ahmad and his family along with Rubina and her children".

"Oh God". Latif said groaning, "You know Chachu (uncle) and Phopho (aunt) eats my brain".

His mother pursed her lips, "Behave Latif. They are your family".

"But they are not nice". Latif whined watching his father, "Can I leave to our other residence?. I don't want this drama please?".

"You are a drama". Imran teases, "Last time Phopho came over you throw a glass of juice at her".

Latif groaned, "Don't remind me. That day still haunts me and every time we meet she give me a separate lecture on it like the first one wasn't enough".

"That is what I wanted to inform you all. Be home on time". His father said shaking his head at his children behaviour, "Hadi, I need to speak to you".

He nodded understanding as they move to his father office while all of his siblings went their ways.

"I want you to pick them from the airport". His father said sitting on the chair

"Baba, we have drivers who can do it". He said not wanting to look at them that soon or spend alone time

"Beta, I told you to not be biased when you don't know anything". His father said as his voice sounded sad, "You don't know things that we all do".

"Isn't phopho the one who always talks about what they have done?". He asked, "She knows the story like all of you. She always said that he went away leaving grandfather and everyone for his gain".

His father shakes his head, "Pick them at 6 pm and be there on time. I will send you the picture of them later".

He knows his father words were the last and he has no say in it so with a sorrow mood he went to his office working on the file hoping that he didn't have to pick them.

"Eshal". Her mother called lovingly watching her pack her bags, "I told you I don't need all of these things".

She smiles adorably looking at her mother, "Why not?. Maybe you might need it".

Her mother shakes her head, "Go and pack your things. We are leaving in an hour".

She nodded smiling as she went to her room. She didn't pack that much because she didn't know what she should pack. Her mother is the one who always packs her stuff and things while she just looks at her but her mother isn't feeling well lately so she had to pack stuff.

She wore her pink cardigan over her white shalwar kameez tying her hair in a messy bun. She went outside to meet her parents in the lounge.

"Bhai is not here?". She asked looking around for Usman when he comes from his room, "There he is".

"Beta, when you go there enjoy yourselves, ok?". Her father said patting her hand lovingly, "Don't worry about anyone or anything".

"Are they not good?". She asked innocently because she never heard about them

Her brother places his arm on her shoulder grinning, "Mai hoon na tumhare sath". (I am by your side)

"Bhai, ap toh yakeen hai k waha ja kar ap mere sath he rahy gay. Jo mujhe pata hai ap apne dosto se milte he mujhe bhool jaty hain". She said pouting (Brother, are you sure when we go there you will stay with me?. Because all I know is whenever you meet your friends, you forget about me)

"Woh konse mere dost hain. Don't stress your tiny mind". Her brother said ruffling her hair and she groaned (They are not my friend)

"Chalo ab time ho raha hai". Her father said smiling (let's go, it's time)

"Baba you are taking us to airport five hours before the flight". Her brother said chuckling receiving a slap from her mother and she giggle

He stands at the airport looking at the sky turning dark as he waits for them to arrive. His father made it clear that he needs to be there half hour before their arrival to not make them wait even for a minute. He left his work hanging just so he can be here when he doesn't want to be.

He sighs.

He knows his father is a wise man but when it comes to his family, he is just different. He doesn't understand why when his uncle didn't even care enough to come when his grandfather was dying or when he died to visit him once, then why all of the sudden he is coming now?. And why is his father giving them a grand welcome?.

His grandfather was the kindest man he can ever come across to but still, he died without watching his last son's face or family.

His father is the oldest, then is his uncle and aunt and the last one is the family he is here to pick. He looks at the screen his father sent their family picture and he zooms in to their happy faces making his hand clench.

His hand zoomed on her face and she looks innocent in the family. With her eyes shining brightly and her cheeks filled with a natural blush.

"Are you Hadi?". He heard someone say and he raises his head to find her father smiling warmly, "I have seen your pictures that Bhai (brother) sent".

He nodded, "Yes, I am. My car is parked over there. Let me carry your bags".

"No, it's fine". Her father said looking behind him, "I think my children are carrying them well".

Her father might have not seen it or didn't mentioned it but both of the siblings were struggling and bickering with the bags.

"I told you not to pack everything that is in our house". Her brother said pushing her as he carries the bags, "We were not shifting here".

She huffed, "I didn't pack that much. You are just weak. Give me that".

She snatches the bag from her brother's hand only to lose her balance falling. She closed her eyes when the pain shoots through her body making her wince but hearing her brother laughing agitated her.

She opens her eyes to find a man standing in front of her and she raise her head to look at his face. He was observing her actions that is what she thinks by the look in her eyes.

"Bhai, I am not going to leave you". She said standing from the floor leaping at her brother who hides behind her mother, "Baba, are you watching him?".

Her father smiles holding her hand looking at Hadi, "I think it's best if you can help with the bags".

"I can carry them". She puffed out not wanting to show she is weak

"Bilkul. Abhi dekha sub nae". Hadi said rolling his eyes snatching the bag from her hand and her soft fingers brush against his hard fingers making him shiver (Of course. Everyone saw it just now)

"Ap mera mazak urha rahy hain?". She asked crossing her hand over her chest and her cheeks starts to turn pink which always happens without her permission (are you making fun of me)

"Ab samjh aya hai?". He asked raising his eyebrows (now you understand this)

She sulks not saying anything as her father takes her to his car and she sits in between her mother and father while the car ride was mostly silent beside when her father asks him something and he replies with one word. Her brother sits in the front seat typing on his phone furiously and she knows he must be speaking to his friends.

She looks outside of the window asking her father to change his seat with her so she can look clearly. She places her face against the window looking at the passing scenery and she knows this hilly area is the most beautiful place because she searched it before coming here.

He looks at the rear mirror watching her looking outside and he shakes his head at her behaviour. He doesn't remember how old she is but she is similar to his younger brother and he already knows they are going to click.

He stopped the car to find everyone standing at the gate to welcome them. He stands behind them watching the reunion not interested as he asks his worker to take their bags inside.

He feels someone bump into him and he turns around to find her looking at him embarrassed.

"Sorry, I wasn't looking. I was looking at the scenery". She said tucking a strand behind her hair and he finds the constant blush darkening which made him want to tease her

"Obviously". He said shaking his head, "You have eyes to use them".

"I was using them perfectly just on other things". She said sighing at his attitude

"Where is Eshal?". His father asked looking around

She walks towards her father greeting the people she didn't know and her father explained but she didn't get most of them. She needs time to remember names and dates.

"You have grown into a beautiful woman". Her phopho said smiling looking at her from head to toe

"Thank you". She said shyly as they sit on the couch looking at the things here were all grand

After talking to the elder they started to introduce their children and she finds her first uncle has four sons. Her second uncle has one son- Omar and one daughter- Yasmin and her aunt has one son- Gafoor.

She went to the room assigned to her after the dinner where she didn't interact with anyone mostly because she is an introvert who likes to be in her circle. She cannot be friendly with anyone easily.

He sits with his cousins and siblings who were doing their things while he was bored. All he wants is to sleep but his brother wouldn't let him leave.

"She didn't even talk to me". Yasmin said annoyed, "She should have taken an initiative".

"You cannot expect her to become here for the first time and starts being friendly with everyone". Latif said rolling his eyes, "I can't be friends with any of you to this day".

"That's because you are dumb". Gafoor said chuckling as he hitting Latif's shoulder making him wince, "But she looks like she is a person who keeps mostly to herself".

"That is not a good thing". Yasmin said frowning, "She should change the way she is".

"And why is that?". He asked and he realised he shouldn't have said it because the silence that followed made him want to leave earth if he could

He knows he is the scariest in all his brothers. His words are short and few which made everyone listen to him without saying anything back to him.

"I-I mean that way she can make others comfortable. Girls should have skills to socialize". Yasmin replied scared for her life

"That is ridiculous". He said standing from his seat, done with this conversation and thankful that both siblings weren't here, "I am leaving".

He enters inside his room changing into his regular clothes as he tries to sleep but couldn't because he feels there is something big coming that he has no idea about.

He shouldn't have been in this situation.

Honestly, he doesn't need to be in it.

"You are ordering me to marry her?". He asked sitting in his father office the next morning

"I am not ordering you". His father said, "I am asking you to do so".

"The pressure in those words suggests that I need to do it no matter what". He said not liking the situation, "I am not going to marry her regardless of the situation".

"Ok". His father said nodding understanding his heart

"Did they come here for this?. Did he ask you for this?". He asked as his hand clench

"No". His father said instantly, "He never asked me for anything, beta. He is a man who cherishes his honour, he never did such a thing. He came here for other reasons but I was the one who thought that he looked stressed because of his daughter".

"Why?". He asked confused, "She looks like a good girl".

"She is a beautiful girl but that is the exact reason her family worries for her future. She is innocent and naive of this world reality". His father said looking at his papers on the desk, "You can't understand how it is for father's who have daughter, all they wish for is to keep them safe but there is so long they can do that".

"What reason did they come here for?". He asked ignoring all the other words

"I can't say that since they don't want anyone to know. You can leave and forget about all of this". His father said waving his hand off

"Will you force someone else?". He asked looking at his father

"I said I wasn't thinking of forcing you if you were to say yes, I would have taken it that way and since you said no, I will respect your decision because you are the one who has to spend your future with your partner". His father said smiling, "I am not going to ask anyone else. Don't worry".

He nodded walking out of the door brushing his curly hair making them messy. He walks outside to get some fresh air before everyone else gathers to eat breakfast.

As he steps in his mansion garden he finds her sitting on the grass immersed in the drawing book in her hand. She wore a baby blue dress and glasses covering her small face as she continued to draw on her book as the sunlight falls on her.

He continued to watch her for a long time until he finds a figure approaching her. His eyes narrowed at his cousin- Omar.

She feels someone blocking the sunlight so she raises her head to find her cousin looking at her. She frowns moving a little back since he was a little too close to her comfort level.

Omar sits on his knees in front of her taking the book in her hand from her, "You like to draw".

She tries to take her book back from him but he stands from his position making her glower.

"Please return my book". She said softly not liking how he continues to look through her book without her permission

"This is such a girl hobby". Omar commented not handing the book back to her, "You--".

He snatches the book out of Omar's hand handing it back to her.

"I think we are taught how to treat a woman and their privacy more respectfully". He snapped because he hates the whole scene he witnessed, "Go back inside".

He didn't even want to hear Omar's excuses because he knows they will be as useless as him.

He looks back at her as she pulls face looking at the ripped page of her book. She looks back at him sadly, "Thank you".

"You should have demanded it". He said when she stands to leave

She turns to look at him innocently, "I think I did but he didn't listen".

He took a deep breath, "Agar nahi sun raha tha tameez se toh batameezi se bolti". (If he wasn't listening nicely you could have said it in a harshly)

"Per woh toh mere cousin hain". She said softly confused with the conversation (but he is my cousin)

"Toh?". He asked raising his eyebrows, "Cousin hai toh kia sar per betha lo gi?". (So) (if he is your cousin will you do everything he says)

"Ap yeh is tarha se mere se kyun baat karty hain?". She asked huffing because she doesn't want to cry (why are you speaking to me in this tone)

Whenever there is an important matter, she starts to cry and she hates it.

"Mai sub se isi tarha baat karta hoon". He said shrugging watching as her cheeks starts to turn red probably because she is holding in her cries (I talk to everyone like this)

"Koi achi baat toh nahi jo ap ittne fakhar se kar rahy". She said turning around leaving him stunned (It isn't a good thing that you are saying it with pride)

He watches her leave and he went inside after a few minutes of calming himself down.

The day went by where she went out with Latif, Omar, her brother and Yasmin who she didn't like that much.

"You look worried". Latif said handing her a sandwich, "Is something bothering you?".

"Will you be able to help?". She asked wanting to speak to someone about her trouble

Latif nodded as she speaks, "Have you felt Omar's behaviour is not right?. Like it isn't something big but just not right in some ways?".

Latif thought for a moment, "Perhaps. He wouldn't act that way in front of any of us knowing we will knock him out. Did he do something to you?".

She gulped as Latif spoke again, "Don't worry. I wouldn't dare to blame you. I know it's not your fault. I want to know exactly what he is doing to deal with it accordingly".

So she explained the details to Latif and she felt relaxed because Latif didn't leave her side or let Omar come near her again.

She sits in the lounge with a paper her brother handed her to draw on since she doesn't like to bring her book in public. Her uncle and aunt were the one sitting with her and rest were the eldest uncle sons.

"What do you think of Omar?". Omar's mother asked

Latif and his eyes turned to her when they asked the question. His hand clench in a fist.

"Why?". She asked naively as she continued to draw not looking at anyone

"Just because. How do you think he is?". Omar's mother asked again

She paused thinking for a moment, "He is rude".

Latif purse his lips so did the rest of the men beside Hadi watching her blunt reply and how taken back Omar's parents looked.

"Why do you find him rude in such a short time?". Omar's mother argued

"Um, you asked me to tell you how he looks to me in this short time. I don't like him and he is not good". She said honestly not aware of the situation

"But you shouldn't judge someone this quick. My son is a very good--". Omar's mother started and Hadi was about to speak when another voice cut in

"Eshal". Her brother said making her turn to him so did the others, "Go to your room, I need to speak to you about something. I will come up in a minute".

She nodded taking the paper she was drawing on with her to her room.

Her brother looks back at Omar's parents, "She is not an object you can force to do whatever you want. If she said she doesn't like Omar, so be it. There is no reason for anyone to make her consider things they want to. I hope you all know that she isn't someone we are going to send away with just anyone".

Hadi smirks watching Omar's parents face pale at her brother words and he knows he couldn't have done this any better than her brother. He looks at his youngest brother who grins at him and he shakes his head at his behaviour.

He knows what she told Latif, he also knew Latif will be the only one in all of them who can make her comfortable. It was good that Latif understood the gravity of the situation and choose him of all the other brother.

The anger he felt when he heard that she doesn't even understand what is happening and all she knows is that it is wrong in some ways was enough to make him mad.

Because she is innocent to not realise what's everyone been up to and they are all tossing her around like something they own and that is the reason he spoke to her brother.

Knowing that's the only way she will understand things.

"Eshal, I don't want you to ever talk or mingle with Omar". Her brother said sitting in front of him, "His intention is not right and I will do my best to not leave you alone with him but in case I am not there then run to the others for help. But, don't ever be in a situation where you are with him, ok?".

"He is bad?". She asked scared holding her brother's hand, "I don't want to stay here, Bhai".

Her brother smiles gently, "I promise everyone will protect you. Don't go to any place alone or any place which doesn't look right, ok?".

She nodded meekly still shaken by the fact that Omar's was in wrong. Usually, her brother and father always make the men around her leave so she never encountered anyone on her own. Now, that she is in open, she is scared.

"How many months till your degree ends?". Latif asked passing her a jar of chocolate which she eats excitedly while everyone was gathered in the lounge

"I have vacation now. I have to go back and then after three/five months, I will have my degree". She replied smiling as she devoured in the sweet taste of chocolate

"Same as mine". Latif said excitedly, "That means we are the same age too. I am 23 and you?".

"23". She said grinning to find someone her age and she takes more chocolate out

"You will get fat". Yasmin said making her frown

"So what?. She can get fat if she wants to there is nothing wrong in it". Latif defended her, "Don't be mean to her".

"I am elder than you. You should respect me". Yasmin snapped

"Then act as an elder and I will respect you". Latif restored making all the other men laugh quietly

She looks between them before the civil war starts she divert Latif attention back to the chocolates they were eating.

His eyes followed the way she takes the chocolate on her spoon and each time she will take a spoon out first but the chocolate is less so she will take the spoon back in to get more chocolate. The chocolate strains were on the side of her lips and the dark shade of chocolate-coated her lips making them look heavenly.

He gulped diverting his attention to anyone else but his eyes stopped at the eyes that were on her making the burning sensation rise inside of him.

Omar.

He needs to put him in his place so he stops the way he looks at her because the look in his eyes was starting to make him want to kill him now.

"What will you do after you are done studying?". Yasmin asked and everyone turns to her and with the attention on her, her cheeks turn pink

"Work". She said smiling slightly through her embarrassment

"The women in our house don't have to work". Her phopho said

She frowns looking at her father, "Baba, I can't work?".

Her father laughs, "If you want to do that then do it".

She smiles widely, "Baba said yes".

"She doesn't need to do that. You have a fortune of your own to provide her with everything she needs". Omar's father said making her sigh sadly

"That is what I have to do to raise them. That is what I choose to do with my life". Her father said making her turn to look at him, "This is my children life and if they want to pursue their career, I will never stop them".

She moves closer to her father whispering in his ear, "That is why I love you".

Her father laughs patting her head, "I love you too, beta".

"Why would she whisper that?". Latif asked curiously

"She always does that. It's her habit". Her mother said smiling

The next day she went towards the garden where the fountain is and she is amazed by the way they have decorated their haveli (mansion). Though her father built his empire, he never spends his money like this. He always said the money he gets, he needs to give back to the needy because he will be questioned for it.

But, this fountain does amaze her.

She continued to look at it as the sunlight starts to pour out and she feels the cold breeze rushing pass her making her shiver. She places her hand on her arms trying to prevent herself from the cold but it didn't help. She pouts because she wants to continue watching the fountain until the sun is completely out but if she heads back to get a jacket, it will be over when she is back.

She feels a jacket over her body and she blinks her eyes looking at her side to find Hadi standing there looking at the fountain-like she was doing.

"Mujhe nahi pata tha ap yaha hai warna--". She started (I didn't knew you would be here or I--)

"Toh tum yaha na ati". He said completing her sentence, "Kyun?. Maine kub kaha hai k jaha mai hoon waha na ana?". (You wouldn't have come) (Why?. Did I ask you to not come where I am?)

"Mujhe laga ap ko shayeed mere se masla hai koi toh ap ko acha nahi lagy ga k mai ap k pass kahi hoon". She said embarrassed from her imagination (I thought maybe you don't like me so you wouldn't want me to be anywhere near you)

"Kaash yahi saach hota". He said sighing, "Kaash yeh baat rahti k tumhara mere pass ana mujhe pasand nahi". (I wish that was the truth) (I wish it was true that you coming near me is something I dislike)

"Kia Matlab?". She asked confused (What do you mean)

"Jo nazar ata hai zarori nahi wohi saach ho". He said looking at her and her doe-like eyes making him take a step back, "Kaafi dafa jo nazar na aye wohi saach hota hai". (Sometimes what you see is not the truth) (Sometimes what you can't see is the truth)

She frowns at his words, "Bohat he koi ajeeb insaan hain". (He is very weird)

He shakes his head knowing she didn't mean for him to hear that but he did anyways. Originally what should have annoyed him, didn't annoy him now.

"Here". He said handing her a cup of tea, "I thought before you freeze yourself to death, I should prevent it".

"Ap ko toh khushi honi chahiyeh thi ap ka kaam asaan ho jata". She said huffing (You should have been happy that your work got easy)

"Khush toh hota per asaan kaam mujhe pasand nahi atay". He said shrugging (I would have been happy but I don't like easy ways)

"Is ka matlab ap mujhe saach mai qatal karny ka sochty hain?". She asked shocked (That means you actually think of murdering me?)

He couldn't help the laughter that escapes his lips at her words, "Tum bilkul pagal ho". (You are crazy)

He shakes his head heading inside with a smile when he finds Yasmin standing at the door looking at them. He turns his face blank as he heads back to his room to get ready for the day.

"How about we head to some shopping?". Yasmin asked, "We were planning a party before you have to leave. We should look for some good dresses".

"But I have enough dresses". She said softly not wanting to leave without her brother who is out with Raza and Imran

"Come on! It won't be long and we can see some new designs. You always dress in the old fashioned way". Yasmin said smiling

She nodded meekly not sure about the feeling she gets but since Omar wasn't going with them, she felt relieved.

"She will be fine, Baba. We came here for her results". Her brother said holding his father hand, "You know the doctor there were all in for money".

"I hope so". Her father said impatiently as they wait for the doctors who took her mother in

She looks around the dark parking lot where Yasmin told her to go and wait while she comes from the washroom. She dialled Yasmin number a couple of times but she couldn't reach her.

She dialled her brother number but there was no answer as she starts to panic because she was not carrying her bag as Yasmin said it was her day to treat her and now she regrets everything.

He walks passed her brother room hearing the continuous ringing of his phone but he knows her brother isn't home. He went inside her brother room looking around until he finds the phone but it stopped ringing but a second later it started to ring again with her name showing on it which he didn't hesitate to answer.

"Bhai, please help me". Her scared voice came out as soon as he answered, "I am scared, Bhai. Please--".

"Where are you?". He said loudly even scary her, "Where in the world are you?".

He could feel his heartbeat rising as she whispers the mall name and he asked her to stay inside the mall until he comes to her. He walked out of her brother room heading downstairs when he found Yasmin coming in.

"What did you do?". He snapped looking at Yasmin who looked scared, "What did you do to her?".

"I-I- didn't--". Yasmin started

"Don't even think about lying to me". He said raged, "If something happens to her before I reach her, you should know that I won't leave you".

He didn't wait to answer anyone else as he runs out of the house driving his car at full speed towards the mall while his brother's followed after taking the address from Yasmin forcefully.

He enters inside the mall hurriedly looking around as he tries to locate her until he finds her standing in the corner looking at the floor. He runs towards her wanting to embrace her but he stopped in front of her calling her name through his dry lips.

The fear in her eyes when she looks at him, the pale skin and the way her body was shivering made him clench his hands tightly. He removes his jacket placing it over her.

"You are safe, Eshal. I am here now". He whispers softly as her eyes filled with tears, "Don't be scared. I promise nothing will happen to you".

"Did she do this to me?". She asked hurt, "Why?. I didn't do anything to her".

"People can be unpredictable. We should--". He started when his brother arrived

They all sigh looking at her safe and sound.

"I cannot believe her". Raza said angrily, "What was she thinking?".

"Is it because of you?". Imran said thoughtfully as Latif took her to the car, "Maybe she did it because you rejected her".

"What does that have to do with Eshal?". He asked frustrated and his heart still beats in fear from earlier

"You should look at yourself when you are looking at her, Bhai. Anyone can tell what you are feeling". Imran said patting his shoulder as he follows behind Latif

"You need to set things straight. If we don't do it, they will only do worse and I already hate that Omar". Raza said leaving him behind

They enter the house while everyone starts to ask her questions.

"I am so sorry, Eshal. I was looking for you everywhere and I couldn't find you". Yasmin said holding her hand

She pulled her hand away, "I called you. I called you so many times and you didn't answer".

"I lost my phone". Yasmin said hurriedly, "Please forgive me this one time".

"You should go and rest". Hadi said looking at her, "Go to your room, Eshal".

She nodded meekly running to her room and locking herself away.

His eyes turned hard as he looks at Yasmin, "Do you realise that what you have done could have ended in something worse if we didn't reach her in time?".

"I didn't do anything". Yasmin argued

"Continue to act this way as long as you want". He snapped narrowing his eyes at her, "Now she has me by her side and I will see how any of you can use or do anything that you want with her".

He knows he cannot kick her family out because of his father and mother even her family because they both will ask questions. For now, both his family and her family weren't home in this whole time.

He sighs.

He needs to pay more attention to her in these coming two weeks before she can leave from her safely. But why is that he doesn't like the leaving part?.

What is wrong with him?.

She didn't come down for dinner after her family arrived and he knows she must be still in shock. While everyone went to sleep and other pretended for the sake of her family that nothing happened while they were away, he stayed behind.

He couldn't seem to shake off the feeling that he encountered in his 29 years of life. He knows he isn't a man who doesn't know his heart, he just doesn't want his heart to be this way.

He heard the softest sound of someone walking and the bare minimum sound already told him who it is that's coming his way. He continued to hear the sound until he finds her standing in front of him.

"Hungry?". He asked softly and she nodded, "I thought you would be. Here".

He passed her the food he has kept for her and she heats the food sitting on the table eating it alone. He comes back with a glass of hot chocolate milk knowing if Latif dies for it, she must like it too. He places the glass in front of her taking the seat in front of her as he watches her eat.

"Don't think about it". He said making her look at him, "The more you will think, the worse it will get".

She nodded, "I am not thinking about what happened but about the future. I don't want to see them for at least a few days".

"You mean Omar and Yasmin?". He asked wanting to clarify about Omar and when she nodded he released a deep breath, "I will ask one of us to be with you. They are consistent so they won't leave your side until you are comfortable to be around them".

She nodded smiling slightly easing his tension a little, "Thank you--".

"Don't say it". He said cutting her off, "I was meant to do it".

"You were meant to?". She asked confused

He shrugged it off, "Come with me tomorrow".

"Where?". She asked curiously

She didn't think of all the places she imagined to be in, she will end in his office building and right outside his cabin waiting area while he attends a meeting.

If boring had a face, it must be him.

She looks at the small frame on the wall with his picture on it so she felt the need to draw on it. She took the marker from one of the desks standing on the chair to reach the frame as she draws to her best abilities and then she escaped.

He looks at his employees looking at something on the wall until they find him and leave from there. He stands in front of his frame on the wall which has horn and whatnot on it now.

He knows for sure that it is her doing which made him laugh as he shakes his head looking around for her.

"You are the daughter of Nawab Shafqat, right?". She heard someone say while she was immersed in the vending machine and a way to get the things she wants from it

"Yes". She said ignoring whoever is talking to her

"Let me". The man said pushing her away as he inserts the coin pressing a button as a bar of chocolate falls and he turns to hand it to her

"No. No. I can't take it from you". She said shaking her head

"Why not?. I will like it if you accept it". The man said smiling

"I wouldn't". They heard someone angry voice as they turn to find Hadi behind her

She smiles at him turning to look at the vending machine oblivious of the scene behind her. Hadi glare at his employee who runs away at the sight of him and he turns to find her grinning at him.

"What do you want?". He asked fully aware that her smile is for something

"Coins. I don't have any coin with me". She said smiling as she waits for him to hand her coins and she squeals turning back to the machine as she collects her snacks

"We could have gone for lunch". He stated, "These snacks will fill you".

She shrugged, "But they are good. I can skip lunch for them".

He shakes his head, "Ok. Be that way. I was thinking of taking you to that riverside restaurant that you were telling Latif about".

She turns to him wide eyes, "What?. You got the reservation?".

"Your snacks are good. Continue eating them". He said walking away while she runs towards him

"No. No. I can eat them any time. Please, can we go there?". She pleaded adorably as he hides his smile

"We were going there anyway. The other will come directly". He said watching her pale, "Not them, Eshal".

"Oh". She said embarrassed as she follows behind him

They reach the restaurant to find everyone else on their seats and she runs to sit beside Latif talking excitedly about the place. She finishes her food early and so did Latif so they both decided to look around the place.

"The rooftop is amazing. I looked at it in the pictures". Latif said grinning

She nodded as she follows behind him to come to the rooftop that was empty since it was a weekday. She moves towards the railing where she can see the beach in front of her enjoying the breeze of it.

He sighs for the hundredth time because he wants to move away from everyone here and he can't seem to do it.

"Go and call them, Bhai". Imran said looking at him giving him a signal which he gets in a second and he was off

He went towards the rooftop when Latif comes down and he told him to go wait in the car while he brings her down. As he steps on the rooftop he found her looking at the beach with a beautiful smile on her face which he did intend to have today by all means after the day she spent yesterday. He stands looking at her fondly and he couldn't take his eyes off her feeling his heart drawing his closer to her.

He needs to set things straight.

"Why is that her family never came back before?". He asked his father at night when they were done with the day

His father sighs, "Would you hear me to the end?".

He nodded as his father spoke, "My brother (Shafqat) being the youngest was loved by everyone like you love Latif. He said spoiled but he was mature in other ways. He used to do what he thought was right and in doing so, he fell in love with someone. She wasn't the one your grandparents chose for him. They made us all marry in the houses that pleased their standards. Though none of us objects mostly because we never had a chance at finding our love, he was always different. They kicked him out after many fights and arguments between them. Your grandfather thought he will return when the world around him will become hard but after he had two children and settled his life, your grandfather hope was gone. They went to him and told him to come back or they will break all their bonds. I saw him suffering because of the love he has for his family that he built and for the family that built him".

His father pauses looking sadly at his grandfather picture, "Your grandfather had a huge ego and pride. So, in his pride, he told him that he was no longer a part of our family. He didn't allow him to visit us even when he came every year and to the point, he made sure he never saw his face when he dies".

"B-But grandfather loved us. Then how can he not accept them?". He asked shocked

"Your grandfather loved his pride a little too much than them". His father said sighing, "They finally came home after all these years".

The next day she went out early with Raza and her brother since they wanted to eat breakfast outside. He comes downstairs at the time he always finds her running around but there was no sound in the house beside his youngest brother.

"They must be enjoying their breakfast". Latif whined, "Why didn't I wake up?".

"Because you were playing games all night". Imran said rolling his eyes

"Who?". He asked looking at them

"Eshal went out with Raza Bhai". Latif said earning a slap from Imran

"And her brother". Imran added like a bandage on a burnt wound

He pokes his cheek with his tongue trying not to think about it and stay calm.

"And she has her day planned with Raza Bhai". Latif commented only to have that last string snap inside of him

He smiles tightly looking at his youngest brother, "You don't happen to know where they are going, do you?".

"No, we don't--". Imran started when Latif cut him off

"Of course I know. She went shopping for a dress". Latif said

"Right". He said nodding

"Raza Bhai said he will buy her one for the party". Latif added excitedly

"Oh, he will?". He asked as his fake smile vanished

"Yes. And she was so excited". Latif said grinning

"Bus karday". Imran whispers to Latif who looks at him confused (Stop talking)

He laughs dryly, "Of course, she is excited. She must be. Nice, it's all nice".

He turns around immediately running out of the house.

"You just made it worse". Imran said groaning

"I did what?". Latif asked not getting anything

Imran sighs.

"A dress?". He said banging his hand on the steering wheel, "She could have told me that she wanted one. Why go out with Raza?".

"Bhai, I am going to that store". She said smiling as she enters the store looking at the beautiful pieces of jewellery

She looks at the small bracelet which has a small star on it making her smile as she likes it.

"Isn't it just beautiful?". She heard his house making her shriek as she turns to find him standing beside her looking at the bracelet, "So, did you buy the dress?".

"How do you know that?". She asked confused, "I thought you have an important meeting today. How come you are here?".

He snickers, "So, if I didn't have a meeting would you have come with me to buy a dress?".

"Probably". She said shrugging as she holds the bracelet

He turns to her when she said the words looking at her for a long time, "I skipped the meeting".

She looks at him shocked, "Per kyun?". (But why)

"Us se zarori ek kaam a gaya tha". He said shrugging as he asks the cashier to pack the bracelet (I had important something more important than that meeting)

"Kabhi kabhi ap ko samjhana bohat muskil lagta hai". She said taking the packet from the cashier (Sometimes understanding you is hard)

"Agar thora dehaan do toh shayeed asaan ho jaye". He said following behind her as they leave the shop (if you pay some attention to me maybe it will get easy)

"Sirf apko kaise saara din dekh sakti hoon?. Ghar mai aur bhi log hain". She said looking around for her brother (How can I look at you all day?. There are more people in the house)

"Agar woh na hotay toh is ka matlab k phir sirf mujhe dekhti?". He asked teasing her (that means if there was no one else then you would have only looked at me)

Her cheeks turn red, "Ji nahi. Maine yeh bhi nahi kaha". (Nope. I never said that)

"Haan shayeed maine he galat samjha ho ga kyun k dress layny toh tum ayi Raza k saath he ho". He said irritated (Yeah maybe I understand it wrong because you did come to buy the dress with Raza)

"Yeh kia dress dress kar rahy hain?". She asked confused (What's with you and dress)

He shrugged, "Did you buy one yet?".

"No. We just came here". She said softly

"Great! It means I am on time. Let's go and buy a dress". He said smiling as he heads towards the shop and she follows behind him

After she buys a dress she found her brother and Raza in the food court. She went with Raza to order and he sighs because she is driving him crazy.

"How come you are here?". Her brother asked

He gulped, "I didn't have anything to do so I thought I to come here".

"Ahaan". Her brother said not believing him

She comes back with her food and just like every time he leaves his food looking at her eating instead because there was a different joy with how her face shows the flavour of the food she eats.

"We are going back a week early". Her brother said making a bomb drop at him, "Her classes need some confirmation and you know how university works are".

"I thought we will spend at least two more weeks". Raza said sadly

He didn't speak the whole ride back to his office because going home is no help. He stayed late in his office thinking about the whole thing.

He went home after he had enough entering inside to find a sound coming from the lounge. He went towards the lounge to find her watching a video while she draws on her book laughing whenever the video shows something funny.

"What are you doing here?". He asked sitting on the couch tiredly

"I was waiting for you". She said truthfully making his eyes widen

She hands him a glass of water as she spoke, "I couldn't thank you for the dress and you were late today so I couldn't sleep until I say thank you".

"And you say I am the weird one". He said shaking his head, "Don't mention it. I am heading to bed, you should leave too".

He starts to leave when she said, "But you didn't eat anything".

"I am tired to eat". He said shrugging

She shakes her head, "No. Clean your hand and I will heat the food".

She places the food when he walks in his casual clothes and each time she looks at him, she feels something in her heart. She is always the one who is reserved but there is something she feels with him.

She stayed beside him just how he stayed beside her that day until they went to their room.

The next day everyone was busy so she stayed with her parents most of the day until they went out and she went to her room.

She heard someone knocking and opening the door to find Yasmin standing there.

"Can you forgive me this once?". Yasmin said sadly, "I was out of mind I didn't realise it".

She didn't say anything and Yasmin comes sitting on the bed.

He enters inside the mansion after a long day of running around for meetings and he came early to rest before dinner.

Although the mansion did look silent when he enters and he knows everyone must be doing their thing.

He went upstairs starting to head to his room when he finds her running daze towards him.

He stepped in her view as she bumped into him and when she steps back the similar fear in her eyes already told him, he isn't going to like this.

"What happened?". He asked as his voice strained between anger and pain

"Y-Yasmin came to my room asking my forgiveness but I didn't say anything. She stayed by herself for an hour before she called her brother in without my permission and told me that I should get used to him and start understanding him because he is my future. She left me in the room with him". She explained as she cries in between, "I was scared".

"How long did you stay in the room?. Did he do something?". He could feel the rage filling in him

He already knows that his uncle is corrupt and he bares it because of his father but he isn't going to continue this for long.

"I didn't stay for a minute but when I tried leaving he pushed me back saying to stop acting and running away from him. I pushed him hard and run outside". She said as she starts to weep harder making him angrier

"Go to your brother room and lock the door while you are in there until I come back, ok?". He said softly wanting to comfort her

She nodded heading to her brother room and he watches to make sure she was inside so he can do what he needs to do.

He heads to the corridor where her room is to find Omar coming out of there and before Omar could say anything, he punched him. He holds his collar pushing him against the wall.

"I warned you, didn't I?". He snapped, "I told you not to be near her".

Omar smirks, "My parents are going to ask for her hand soon. I don't see why I can't spend time with my future wif--".

He didn't even let him finish the sentence as he punches him again because now the rage he felt is nowhere near to before. There is no way she is marrying this bastard when he is alive.

Imran saw them fighting so he pulled his brother off watching how enraged he looks. He had a slight idea it must involve her somewhere because he never saw his brother killing someone.

He pushed Imran away as he heads to his father office.

"I need to tell you something". He said angrily as he tries his best to remain calm while explaining

"I can't believe this". His father said shocked, "What am I supposed to do?. I can't tell her family about this, they already have so much to deal with".

"What is that supposed to mean?". He asked confused

"Her mother was diagnosed with cancer however the doctor wasn't that qualified there so they came here for her tests and procedures". His father explained and he felt his heart stop

"What?. Mashal knows about this?". He asked feeling his throat drying

His father shakes his head, "She can't handle this so they didn't inform her. They are waiting for the results and the doctor is working on stabling her mother every day. That's why they are never home until dinner".

He brushes his hand through his hand frustrated, "Throw them out".

"What?. They are family--". His father started

"A very shameful family". He said as his voice darkened, "I have respected them for you, Baba. They should have stayed in their limits and they think harming one of our family is their right. I am not tolerating their behaviour anymore. She came here to enjoy her vacation and all those people have done is to make her suffer for no reason but to fulfil their desires. They are leaving this house and you have to make sure that they don't send any proposals to her father".

His father didn't say anything realising that even if it's family if it's harmful it needs to be cut off. His father spoke to Omar's family asking them to leave immediately. Though his phopho created a scene to know why but they made an excuse and they were out of the house. He didn't feel at ease until he was sure they were away and he asked his security to be around her from now on.

He went back inside knocking on her brother bedroom and after a few moments the door open. Her eyes were swollen from crying and no matter how she is, why does his heart never stop fluttering?.

"They are gone". He told her watching the relief appearing in her eyes, "They won't be a bother so you can enjoy your time here".

She nodded smiling slightly, "I will head to my room then".

The next week went by faster then he wanted it to be. The time for their final party before they have to leave arrived and he didn't even felt the least bit happy about it.

She prepares herself to leave for the restaurant they arranged their last gathering at. She isn't sure if they will be coming back here and that is what bothers her.

She sighs.

She doesn't know why her heart feels so heavy and the need to stay here by all means but she knows she needs to go back.

She heads downstairs to find her brother waiting for her and some have left to see the arrangements. She enters inside her brother car as they head towards the venue.

He looks at the entrance for the millionth time but as he looks again he finds her entering inside and his breath knocked out.

She looks beautiful.

Not just plain beautiful but she looks magnificent. He couldn't move or look away as she smiles looking at him and at that moment, the moment when her eyes shine and her lips turn into a beautiful grin is the moment of his realisation that the seed his father placed in him when she first came in managed to grow on it's own even when he didn't want it to.

She went back.

For the last five months, she was busy in her studies but she couldn't help the fact that she felt empty. She managed to have a glance of him every time she spoke to her parents but that lessen since both of them were busy.

She wanted to run back many times but she didn't.

She heard her phone ringing as her brother called her out of the house in a hurry and without any explanation they boarded the plane.

"Bhai, please tell me what's wrong?". She asked anxiously as she sits in the plane

Her brother explained how their mother was diagnosed with cancer but it was just a starting of cancer so she needed a small operation to get rid of it however the operation that was yesterday was successful but her mother didn't wake up after that.

She could feel her heartache as she had no idea about how much her mother was suffering while she was busy doing her own thing. She continued to cry through the plane ride and once they arrived they took a taxi to the hospital because no one knows that they were coming.

He missed her.

It was simple. For the past few months, he walks around feeling a weight over his heart that he cannot share and cannot carry inside of him. He remains distant from everyone even more than before because he doesn't want pieces of advice or anything from them.

He stands in the hospital speaking to the doctor when he heard the sound of crying and he turns around to find her standing in front of him.

He felt his heart leaping out of his chest looking at her eyes looking back at him and everything around them stopped.

"How is Ammi?". She asked wiping her tears

"She is good. They said she needs rest to gather her energy since she was in pain before". He explained wanting to ask her to not cry, "She will be better, Eshal. Don't worry. They took her in for more tests".

"She didn't tell me anything". She said sadly 

"They didn't want to hurt you. They know you will be like this, that's why". He said softly, "Your Baba is coming in an hour. Do you want to get some coffee and relax before that?".

She nodded meekly asking her brother before she went to the cafeteria with him. She didn't speak anything because she has so much to say but no way to say it.

"How have you been?". He asked as they sit in the cafeteria after taking their coffees

"Busy. I have to put in double efforts". She said softly as she sips the hot drink

"Similar to Latif. He missed you. He was this close to taking a flight to you". He said chuckling when he remembers how Latif fought them all

She smiles, "Yeah! He keeps sending me messages asking me to skip studies for a week and come back".

"Who else were you in contact with?". He asked curiously

She shrugged, "No one. But...".

"But?". He asks impatiently

She cleared her throat, "But I think two or three months back. Baba called one day and said that Omar wishes to marry me after I am done with my education".

His hand clench, "And?".

"I said no. I don't like him". She said making a face

"So you have someone you like?". He asked anxiously and he never been this anxious

She nodded, "I do".

You. She wanted to say.

He enters inside his father office after spending the day at the hospital, "Did you know about Omar's parents sending a proposal to her?".

"They did?". His father asked confused, "No one told me. But they did talk about Yasmin's proposal for you".

"I rejected it years ago". He said angrily

"They weren't stopping so I told him you have someone you like". His father said

"I have someone I like?. Who exactly did you say this to?". He asked gulping

"It was Omar's parents and Eshal's father". His father replied

"Baba, why did you do that?". He said panicked, "What if Eshal father takes it wrong way?. No what if he tells this to Eshal?".

"Why do you care?". His father asked leaning on his chair

"Because I like her". His eyes widen when he confessed as he looks at his father who was smiling

"I have been waiting to hear that so I can finally prepare for a wedding of my dumb son". His father said chuckling, "I heard her mother is awake so I will ask Eshal hand in a month".

One month.

She was done with her degree and she applied for her job here because her mother was still treated here. Her brother was the only one who went back for his work and to look after their house.

She felt at home.

Things changed drastically to say at least, the man she met at the airport and only find rude and annoying turned into someone special in her life.

He become her support system when more people were opposing her job situation and he stood in front like her shield.

He became a part of her life in a small amount of time.

She didn't realise until she was far away for five months that sometimes, someone can become an important part of one life without any intention for it.

Love was unexpected, to begin with.

She looks at her red bridal dress twirling it around as she raises her head looking at the moon in front of her.

His father asked for her hand earlier than he said because he saw her both of them grow on each other. Her father didn't object since he saw him helping them through the hospital visits and more. Her brother didn't say anything because he knows how much he cares for her. No one said anything because she said yes in a second.

Though her uncle and his family made sure to be a nuisance she didn't have to deal with them since he did that for her.

"I saw you once in red before and that was the day I realised everything". She heard his voice as her heart starts to beat loudly

She turns to look at him, "Realise what?".

He steps closer to her, "That you have become an important person in my life. And I saw you in red today and realise something else".

She blushes, "What is that?".

He leans even closer as he whispers, "Zrra me ta orey dey, Zama meena".

(You have my taken my heart, my love)

That was them.

Hadi and Eshal.

THE END.

******

If you read it till the end, raise your hand 🙋‍♀️.

So, how was it?. What was your favourite part?.

See you all soon.

Thank you!.

Your author,

Faiqa.