The thing which I wanted to discuss with y'all in previous update was about Sharar's sequel and prequel.

As the story is coming to the end, many of you are asking if there will be any sequel, and my answer remained same that I don't have anything in my mind for sequel. But but but, on 9th August, I was just sitting, eating ice cream, and Sharar's sequel stared playing in my mind, and I just sat there and was just imagining it from the start to end, Dialogues, characters, everything... so, well, ab itni detailed mein ayi hai story toh aise kaise na likhu🙈 but there is a problem, I've promised Sharar's prequel too (again by your demand.) and now there is a sequel too, I don't know which to write first, and I can not write them both together, it will be too confusing for me. Khair, when sharar will end, then I will do a poll and write the story with highest vote. No need to comment right now what you want to read, I will do a poll on Sharar's last chapter, then we can discuss that. Yeah, that's it. Now you can read😁

•••

As the wedding function was gradually coming to an end, the hustle and bustle of guests departing created a quiet moment on the stage for Hanan and Ayat. The twinkling fairy lights and soft melody of a romantic song playing in the background set the atmosphere.

Chahaton ka mazaa, faasalon mein nahi
Aa chupa loon tumhe hauslon mein kahi
Sab se upar likha, hai tere naam ko
Khwaishon se jude silsilon mein kahi

Hanan turned towards Ayat, a warm smile on his face. With a playful glint in his eyes, he leaned closer and asked, "Intezaar karwane ki wajah jaan sakta hoon, Mrs Hanan?"

(Can I know the reason why you made me wait for so long, Mrs Hanan?)

They didn't get a chance to talk to each other because guests were coming on the stage.

Ayat's cheeks flushed a delicate shade of pink, and she gave a sheepish grin, "Woh... humara blouse tight ho gaya tha, fir api ussey leke gayi alter ke liye aur fir usme itna time laga. Hum toh bas kamre main khamakha baithe rahe." Sadly, Ayat recounted all the chaos.

(That... my blouse had become tight, then api took it to the tailor for alterations and it took so much time. I was just sitting in the room for no reason.)

Hanan's eyebrows shot up in amusement, then he chuckled, his laughter melodiously blending with the soft music. "Makafat."

(Retribution,)

"What?" Ayat got confused, as she asked.

"Aur nahi toh kya. Insan bhool bhi jaye, Allah pak apne nek bando ke sath na-insafi nahi hone dete." Hanan's eyes glimmered with affection.

(What? This proves that even if humans forget, Allah does not allow injustice with His righteous servants.)

"Kya keh rahe hain aap?" This made her more confused. What is he talking about?

(What are you saying?)

"Masoom mat bano, tumhari wajah se humare nikkah wale din 2 ghante bathroom mein band tha main, ussi ki saza thi yeh." Cupping her cheek, Hanan told her.

(Don't act innocent, because of you I was locked in washroom for two hours on our nikkah. This was your punishment.)

Ayat's eyes widened as the memory resurfaced, and she burst into laughter, putting her hand over her mouth. She tried to control her laugh.

"Haan toh aap woh deserve karte the." She didn't have any hint of guilt on her face.

(You deserved that.)

"Main deserve karta tha? Zara mujh masoom ka gunah batao jo main deserve karta tha."

(Do I deserve it? Please tell me the innocent one's sin that I deserved.)

"Apne nikkah ke liye mana nahi kiya tha." Ayat replied, giggling softly.

(Because you didn't refuse for our marriage.)

"Ek minute, woh sab iss wajah se tha?"

(One minute, that was because of this?)

"Haan toh, apko kya laga kis liye tha? Aur itne kareeb hoke na baithe, sab dekh rahe hain." Seeing Ayat's radiant smile, his heart swelled in affection.

(Yeah so, what do you think that was for? And stay a little bit away from me, everyone is looking.)

"Mujhe laga pagal ho, karti rehti ho pagalpanti." Hanan grinned, pulling her closer for a gentle side hug.

(I thought you are stupid, you do stupid things.)

"Hanan," Ayat's cheeks turned the colour of the roses. She discreetly tried to pull him away, but Hanan's hold was firm. She glanced around, hoping no one had noticed, but the amused smirks on some of their cousins' faces told her otherwise. "Sab dekh rahe hain." She said in a hushed voice.

(Everyone is looking.)

"Dekhne do. I want to hold you." Hanan shrugged.

(Let them loom.)

She rolled her eyes, trying to hide her smile. "Well, I don't want to. Durr hoke baithe."

(Stay away from me.)

Pouting, Hanan had to sit straight.

"Ayat," After a few seconds of silence, he called her. "Kya log yeh bhi dekhenge?"

(Will people see this too?)

Before Ayat could ask what, Hanan leaned closer, his lips brushing her ear as he teased her, knowing very well that her shyness would extend because of this.

Before Ayat could react, he nuzzled her cheek, causing her to giggle and squirm away. "Bas karein," she chided in a hushed tone. With a swift and discreet movement, she smacked Hanan's hand away, her expression a mix of embarrassment and exasperation

Hanan's eyes widened in mock hurt, and he rubbed his arm as if she hit him hard.

"Yeh kis liye tha?" he whispered playfully, his tone exaggeratedly wounded.

(What was that for?)

"Durr hoke baithiye, hum kabse keh rahe hain log dekh rahe hain."

(Stay away from me, people are watching.)

"Ek baat batao, yeh konse log hain jab main tumhare kareeb araha hoon toh dekh rahe hain, ab tum mujhe maar rahi ho toh koi nahi dekh raha." Hanan chuckled, enjoying her situation a lot.

(Tell me one thing, who are these people that you mentioned are watching when I'm getting closer to you, but now when you're hitting me, no one is watching?)

Ayat blushed deeper, feeling her own playful hit backfire on her. "Woh alag hai,"

(This is different.)

With a smirk, Hanan reached for her hand again, his eyes gleaming mischievously. "Theek hai, nahi ata tumhare kareeb. But dekho zara, kya log yeh bhi dekh rahe hain?"

(Alright, I won't come closer to you. But look, can you see if people are watching this too?)

As he leaned toward her, pecking her cheek, Ayat's laughter rang out softly, and she leaned into him for a moment, allowing the sweet, private moment to linger. There weren't many guests left in the lawn, and the ones who have remained, they were busy in themselves.

•••

The joyous celebration came to end, as Ayat entered the aangan, her heart swelled with mixed emotions. The festive sounds of the wedding still echoed in the air, but now a sense of change and transition hung in the atmosphere. Khushnuma was gently leading her towards her new home within the haveli, and as she walked, Ayat's steps felt heavy with the weight of what lay ahead.

Her eyes brimmed with tears as she looked around, taking in the familiar sights of the haveli where she had spent her entire life. The courtyard had witnessed countless family gatherings, celebrations, and moments of laughter. But now, a new chapter was about to begin, and Ayat's heart was torn between the excitement of starting a new life with Hanan and the ache of leaving behind the comfort and warmth of her childhood home. Ayat suddenly felt overwhelmed by the realization that things would never be quite the same.

Tears welled up in her eyes, and without hesitation, she turned back towards her father, who stood there with a mixture of pride and sadness in his eyes. Ayat rushed into her parents's embrace, holding onto him as if trying to capture every ounce of love and familiarity that she could. The hug was a silent exchange of emotions. Azlan held her close, offering his silent support and understanding.

As they finally parted, Azlan wiped her tears, blessing her to embrace the new life that awaits her.

•••

Even when they reached home, Ayat was continuously crying. They had to excuse the guests, and Khushnuma took Ayat to her room so she could relax. Huzaifa and Rukhsar stayed in the living room with guests. Many rituals were left to do yet.

In the softly lit room, Ayat sat on the sofa, her tear-streaked face nestled in her hands. Shahzain sat beside her, gently rubbing her back, "Bas, bachhe,"

(Enough, my dear,)

Khushnuma handed her a tissue with a comforting smile. "Chalo, ansu saaf karo, samne hi toh ghar hai, jab dil chahe chali jana."

(Come on, clean your tears. They live across us, you can go there anytime you want to.)

"Jiss hisab se tum ro rahi ho, mujhe toh lagta hai rone ka koi world record banana hai. Haina, Ayat?" Hanan poured water for her, then sat in front of her on the floor. He made her drink the water.

(From the way you are crying, I think you are gonna set a world record of crying. Right, Ayat?)

"Hanan!" Khushnuma warned him, signalling him not to say anything foolish right now.

"Mummy, main janta hoon aise ghar se bicharhke rona ajata hai, lekin iss tarah se royegi toh mujhe toh apna aap mujrim lagne lagega."

(Mummy, I know girls cry when they leave their homes, but if she keep crying like this, I'll start feeling like I'm the one to blame.)

"Please, apne haal pe nahi toh mujhpe taras khao, aur rona band kardo." Hanan joined his hands together and made innocent face.

(Please, if not on your condition, then have some compassion for me, and stop crying.)

"Nahi rona band karogi? Chalo fir utho, uncle ke yaha chalte hain." Standing up, he told her and extended his hand out.

(You won't stop crying? Come on, get up, we will go to uncle's house.)

"Hanan, kya keh rahe ho?" Khushnuma glared at her son.

(Hanan, what are you saying?)

Shahzain didn't say anything. He knew Hanan would cheer Ayat up somehow.

"Haan toh, iske itna rone se behtar hai main hi rukhsat ho jau, uncle aunty ke yaha reh lunga I don't think they would mind. Don't worry, apse milne ata rahunga." He was saying everything in a serious tone, then he assured Khushnuma as if she was worried about him.

(Yes, so instead of her crying so much about this, it would be better if I leave the house. I can stay with uncle and aunty, I don't think they would mind. Don't worry, I'll come to meet you.)

"Chalein, Ayat?" He again turned to Ayat and asked.

(Come, Ayat?)

"Humne aisa toh nahi kaha." Ayat couldn't understand that he was joking and scaredly, she said, raising her head from Shahzain's shoulder.

(I didn't say that.)

"Aisa nahi kaha toh rona toh band karo, mera dil ghabra raha hai ab."

(You didn't say that but stop crying, my heart is getting restless.)

"Hum..." Ayat opened her mouth to say something but couldn't.

(I...)

"Khushi, bahar aao, guests ko dekh lein." Shahzain unwrapped his arm around Ayat and told Khushnuma.

(Khushi, come, we shluld attend the guests.)

Khushnuma was surprise by this. She wanted to oppose, but Shahzain nodded his head, making her shut her lips. She also stood up. They left, leaving them alone to talk to each other.

"Meri Jaan, kyu ro rahi ho itna?" Hanan sat beside Ayat and asked. He wraps his arm around Ayat.

(My love, why are you crying so much?)

Ayat didn't say anything. Putting her head on Hanan's chest, she again started crying.

"Arey, fir rone lagi? Bas kardo, kya hua hai? Darr lag raha hai?" Rubbing her back, Hanan asked.

(You've started crying again? Enough, what happened? Are you scared?)

"Nahi..." Hiccuping, Ayat replied.

(No...)

"Toh fir? Uncle aunty ki yaad arahi hai?" This time, Ayat nods her head.

(Then? You are missing uncle and aunty?)

"Arey, toh pagal, samne wale ghar mein hi toh hain, jab dil karega chali jana."

(Stupid, they live across us, you can go there anytime you want to.)

"But it won't be the same anymore." In a low voice, Ayat said.

"It won't be, but I promise it will be better." Kissing her head, Hanan told her.

Her voice trembled as she posed a question that held all her fears, "Pakka? Aap humse hamesha itni mohabbat karenge?"

(Promise? You will always love me like that?)

Hanan's heart skipped a beat, his mind involuntarily drifting back to the day she had asked him a similar question. The memory of her soft cries, the warmth of her touch, and her plea to never leave her side resurfaced, sending a shiver down his spine.

Just moments after that innocent plea, fate had played a cruel hand. Ayat's accident, her unconscious form lying in a hospital bed, had shattered his world. The fear of losing her had been etched deep into his soul.

As he looked into Ayat's tearful eyes, his own gaze held a mix of love and pain. With a gentle smile, he cupped her face in his hands, his voice steady but full of emotion. "Ayat, tum janti ho main tumse kitni mohabbat karta hoon, iss duniya mein sabse zyada."

(Ayat, you know how much I love you. I love you more than anything else in the world.)

His words seemed to echo in the quiet room, and Ayat's tears began to slow. She leaned into his touch, the weight of her worries gradually lifting. Hanan pulled her into a tight embrace, as if trying to shield her from any potential harm. He could not bear to lose her again.

"I love you, Ayat," he murmured against her hair, his lips brushing her forehead. "And I promise to be there for you, always."

In his arms, Ayat found solace. As Hanan held her, she knew that while life could be uncertain, their love was a constant, unchanging bond that could weather any storm.

•••

Ayat has stopped crying now. Khushnuma brought juice and refreshments for her, after she felt better, Khushnuma did her touch up and ask her to come outside.

Hanan seemed a little impatient, as he was about to lead Ayat to their room, but Khushnuma interrupted.

"Hanan, ruk jao, rasm honi hai abhi," Khushnuma said with a gentle smile.

(Hanan, stop, we have to do some rituals.)

"Konsi?" Hanan asked, tiredly. And in return, Khushnuma glare at him. She took Ayat with her.

(What rituals?)

Hanan exchanged a quick glance with Ayat, his cheeks slightly pink with embarrassment.

Khushnuma led them to the center of the room where a beautifully decorated table was set. On it lay an assortment of gifts, elegantly wrapped and waiting to be presented. And bowl of kheer.

"Chalo, ek dusre ko kheer khila do." Rukhsar told Hanan.

(Feed each other kheer.)

"Dadi, yeh kheer kyu khilate hain?" Picking up the silver bowl of kheer, adorned with slivered almonds and saffron strands, Hanan asked to Naziya Begum.

(Dadi, why do we have to feed each other kheer?)

"Taki aap dono ki zindagi meethi meethi guzre." Smiling, Naziya Begum told her favourite grandson.

(You two can live a sweet life together.)

"Toh isko bachpan mein kheer nahi khilayi thi kya?" Hanan asked, pointing at Ayat, then took the spoon to feed her.

(So, was she not fed kheer during childhood?)

Before eating kheer, Ayat glare at him on his comment.

"Chalo, ab mujhe bhi khila do." Hanan told her, when she didn't make a move to take the spoon from him. Ayat's lips curved into a shy smile as she finally picked up the spoon, her fingers trembling slightly, everyone was looking at her, which made her nervous.

(Now feed me too.)

Hanan couldn't contain his impatience any longer. With a playful glint in his eyes, he reached out and gently took Ayat's hand that held the spoon. She looked up at him, her eyes wide with surprise, as he guided the spoon towards his own lips, tasting the kheer, which is his favourite.

•••

When they feed each other, Khushnuma clapped her hands, and told the maid to bring a bowl was filled with milk, rose petals, and pebbles. She explained the tradition of the ring-finding game, where the couple would compete to find the ring in the bowl of milk.

"Iss game ki kya zaroorat hai, chachi, sab jante Hanan jeetke bhi haar hi manega Ayat ke samne." Playfully, Kabir said. The room erupt into laughter.

(What's the point of this game, chachi? Everyone knows that Hanan will accept defeat in front of Ayat, even if he wins.)

"Tumhari tarah competition se pehle hi thori hathiyar dalunga main." Hanan retorted, pulling up his sleeves.

(I won't give up like you before the competition, though.)

The room was filled with joyous cheers as Hanan and Ayat dipped their hands into the bowl, gently stirring the milk. The sight of the couple hunched over the bowl, their eyes locked in determination.

Some were cheering for Hanan, and some for Ayat, but both of them were focused on the ring.

As they continued to search, their hands brushes against the each other, everyone's laughter grew louder.

Suddenly, Hanan's movements ceased. Ayat, perceptive and quick-witted, noticed the stillness in his hand. She turned her gaze to him, her eyes dancing with anticipation. She could feel the ring resting against his fingers, yet he hadn't pulled it out.

In a mischievous yet affectionate move, Ayat's fingers reached out underneath the bowl, her hand gently finding Hanan's wrist. With a quick pinch, she gave his hand a playful nudge, causing him to startle and inadvertently release the ring.

"Ouch!" He looked up at her. But she didn't react to him.

Ayat let out a triumphant shout, holding the ring up for everyone to see. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause.

"Mujhe toh pata hi tha Ayat jeetegi," Khushnuma was proud of her, kissing her cheek, she said.

(I knew Ayat will win.)

"Isne cheating ki hai." Hanan complained, pointing at Ayat.

(She cheated.)

"Humne kya kiya?" Ayat masked an innocent look and asked.

(What did I do?)

"Hanan, haar accept karna seekho." Kabir told him, patting his back. "Waise bhi jeet ke kya kar lena tha tumne."

(Hanan, learn to accept your defeat.)

(And what you could have done even after winning?)

Hanan huffed on this, but later join in the laughter, his eyes sparkling with love as he watched Ayat revel in her victory.

•••

"Iska badla main leke rahunga." Khushnuma told the maid to take the bowl away. Now, Hanan and Ayat sat together on the sofa, when Hanan whispers to her.

(I will take my revenge.)

"Mummy, ab jaye? Thakk gaya hoon, neend arahi hai." Hanan looked at Khushnuma and asked.

(Mummy, can we go? I am tired, I want to sleep.)

"Tumhe neend arahi hai toh tum jao, lekin abhi Ayat yahi rahegi. Abhi humne ussey munh dikhayi ke gifts dene hain." Khushnuma told him, which burst Hanan's bubbles.

(You can go if you are so sleepy, but Ayat will stay here. We have to give her presents.)

He looked at Ayat, then sat there silently.

Khurram Haider was the first one who gave Ayat the present. It was a diamond set, which once belonged to Hanan's grandmother.

Ayat was hesitant to take such a precious gift, as she looked at Khushnuma, who nods her head. Smiling, Ayat took the gift from him.

"Thank you, Nana jaan."

"Bless you." A proud smile fall on Khurram's face, as he put his hand on Ayat's head.

"Nana jaan smile bhi kar lete hain?" Hanan asked to his mother, in hushed tone.

(Nana jaan can smile?)

"Chup raho." Khushnuma scolded him in response.

(Shut up.)

It was uncommon to see Khurram Haider smile, but Khushnuma remembered that years ago, when Khurram had come from America to take Hanan, he had developed a fondness for Ayat. This affinity was likely a contributing factor in his agreement for Hanan and Ayat's nikkah.

Everyone was giving Ayat gifts, which she was passing to Hanan, who was putting them on table.

"Mummy!" At last, Hanan got tired, and called his mother.

"Now what?" Khushnuma also become weary of his continuous whining.

"Yeh munh dikhayi ke gifts sirf dulhan ko hi milte hain?" Hanan's innocent question evoked laughter,

(Only brides receives gifts?)

"Haan toh woh bahu haina, bahu ko toh gifts milte hain. Aur tum fikar mat karo, jab tum apne sasural jaoge toh tumhe bhi gifts milenge." She told him, still laughing.

(Of course, she is our daughter-in-law. And don't worry, you will also receive gifts when you will go to your in-law's house.)

"Mumh dikhayi ke gifts ke liye dekhne wala chehra bhi toh hona chahiye." Playfully, Ayat whispers.

"Main sab note kar raha hoon gin gin ke badla lunga." Hanan whispers back.

•••

Shyra was sitting away from the crowd, watching Hanan and Ayat with a soft smile, but her face looked pale, making Kabir scared as he went to her.

"Theek ho?" Kabir asked softly, leaning closer to her.

(Are you okay?)

"Huh? Haan!" Looking at him, she nods her head.

(Huh? Yes,)

"Tired?" Sitting beside her, he asked. Shyra nods her head.

"Toh ghar chalo na?" Kabir looked worried for her.

(Then come, let's go home.)

"I am fine, aap jaye waha." Putting her hand on his arm, she tried to assure him. Kabir studied her for a moment, his gaze unwavering.

(You go there.)

"Yaar, tum puri shadi mein disturb lag rahi thi, kya hua? Tabiyat theek nahi hai?" He again asked, touching her forehead to see if she have fever. She was fine in the beginning of the function, her face glowing with happiness, but then suddenly, she was lost and gloomy, Kabir couldn't understand the reason why.

(You looked disturbed in the function too, what happened? Are you sick?)

"Kabir!" Shyra moved a little away from him, and glare at him.

"Jaye, sab hain yaha." She looked around, afraid someone might see them so close to each other, but everyone's attention was on Hanan and Ayat, which made her relax.

(Go, everyone is here.)

"Shyra," He wanted to tell her that he is worried for her, but one angry look from her shut his mouth.

"Okay, fine, I am leaving," He decided to leave her alone for some moment like she wanted to.

•••

Ayla was sitting in the lawn, the place which was so lively and full of celebration hours ago was now silent. Taking off her earrings, she freed her hair from bun and put it on her right shoulder.

Kaif, walked over quietly, his steps deliberate and gentle. He was aware of Ayla's emotions right now, she was thinking about her baby sister.

"Ayla," He sat beside her on the empty chair, and called her.

She was startled by his voice, as she looked at him. Kaif put a cup of tea forward for her.

"Thanks, I needed it." Softly, she said, and picked the cup from table.

"Janta hoon. Humare walima wali raat bhi tum chali gayi thi kitchen mein chai banane." Kaif reminded her with a smile.

(I know. You went to make tea for yourself on our reception night too.)

Ayla didn't say anything, and sipped the tea. Instantly, her body relaxed. "Nagma ne bohot achhi chai banayi hai." She praised the maid who usually make tea in Kaif's house.

(Nagma made really good tea.)

"Chai... maine banayi hai." Kaif leaned toward her and told her.

(I... made the tea.)

Ayla, who was enjoying the tea, looked at him with surprise gaze.

"Apne? Aap kabse chai banane lage?" She asked, her voice tinged with genuine surprise.

(You? When did you learn to make tea?)

Kaif shrugged his shoulder. "Mumbai mein apne kaam khud hi karta tha. Koi house help hire nahi kiya." He told her.

(I did all my work by myself in Mumbai. I didn't hire any house help.)

Ayla looked away from his face, feeling shocked and guilty. "Aap toh khudse ek glass pani bhi nahi lete the, kaam kaise karte honge?" She mumbles, her gaze dropping to the swirling steam rising from her cup.

(You never took a glass of water by yourself. How did you manage to do household chores?)

Kaif chuckled softly, his eyes softened with understanding. "Haan, kafi zyada pampered tha na main?" he said, a hint of playful nostalgia in his voice. "But life has a way of teaching us things we never thought we'd learn."

(I was very pampered, right?)

"I am sorry... humari wajah se..." She started saying.

(Because of me...)

"Don't be." Kaif reached across the table and gently placed his hand over hers. "Ayla, agar tumhari wajah se kuch bhi hua toh main behtar bana gaya hoon." He said softly, his eyes locking onto hers with sincerity.

(Ayla, if anything happened because of you, I have become better.)

Ayla looked away, she didn't have anything to say after that.

"Eh..." She tried to take her hand away from him. Hesitantly, Kaif removed his hand.

They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the past hanging in the air between them, as they sipped their tea, Kaif and Ayla's eyes met, and for a brief moment, time seemed to stand still, then Ayla looked away.

"Sab waise kafi achhe se ho gaya na." Kaif said, trying to keep the conversation between them on. "Ayat aur Hanan dono bohot khush lag rahe the, Masha'Allah,"

(Everything went well.)

(Ayat and Hanan looked happy.)

"Masha'Allah! They have been through a lot, they deserve this." Ayla said, her lips bloomed into a smile as she recalled Ayat's happy face.

"We have been through a lot too, hum bhi toh ek aur chance deserve karte hain." Kaif said.

(We also deserve a chance.)

"You... you are not gonna give up, are you?" Ayla looked at him with tired expression and asked.

Smiling, Kaif shook his head.

"I am going." Taking an exasperated breath out, Ayla said and stood up.

"Ayla," Kaif called after her. Ayla paused, her back to him. Slowly, she turned her gaze back to him, her eyes locking with his. And in that moment, a flicker of a smile danced on her lips, a small but unmistakable sign.

His heart leaped in hope, Kaif watched as she finally left, her steps a little lighter than before. He knew that smile - it was a chink in the armor she had built around herself, a sign that maybe, just maybe, there was a chance for them to find their way back to each other.

•••

As the wedding function came to an end and all the rituals were successfully completed, it was time for bride and groom to go to their room.

"Hanan, aise nahi, utha ke le jao. Jaise stage pe kiya tha." Burhan commented, slapping Hanan's back.

(Hanan, not like this, pick her up, like you did on the stage.)

Hanan looked at Ayat, who blushed a delicate shade of pink.

"Usme kya hai..." Hanan said, and he stepped forward. Ayat's eyes widened, as she shook her head, telling him not to do anything like that. But Hanan didn't listen. With the encouragement of their mischievous cousins and a supportive cheer from the crowd, Hanan gently lifted Ayat into his arms.

The room was filled with applause and cheers as Hanan cradled Ayat with tenderness. She looked at him with a mix of surprise and amusement, her arms wrapped around his neck. Slowly, he began to walk towards their room.

But just as they reached their room, Shyra, Nida, and Amreen stopped them on the doorway.

"Neg?" Shyra put her hand forward and asked.

"Of course. Ayat, zara meri pocket se wallet nika do." Grinning mischievously, Hanan glanced down at Ayat, his eyes twinkling with affection.

(Ayat, can you take my wallet out from my pocket.)

With a shy smile, Ayat she shifted slightly in Hanan's arms, her fingers dancing over his pocket, she slid her hand into his pocket,

"Jaldi karo, Ayat," Hanan groaned.

(Hurry up, Ayat.)

"Tumhe bohot jaldi hai, Hanan." Nida teases him. 

(You are so eager, Hanan.)

The teasing made Ayat more shy. She finally found the wallet in his pocket. Clutching it in her hand, she took it out.

"Yeh hui na baat. Yeh pura aap log ka." Hanan told them.

(This is all yours.)

Nida took the wallet from her,

"Check karlo, khali toh nahi." Kabir warned them, which alerted them, they quickly checked it.

(First check it, what if it's empty?)

"Koi baat nahi, card toh hai isme." Amreen said.

(It's okay, there is card in this too.)

"Ab main jau?" Hanan asked.

(Can I go now?)

"Haan, haan, aram se." They stood aside, allowing Hanan and Ayat to finally enter their room. As they stepped into the room, laughter followed them, an echo of the joyful moment they had shared with loved ones.

(Yes, yes,)

Hanan set Ayat down gently, his eyes never leaving her face, who has now turned even a darker shade of red due to blushing.

Hanan went to lock the door.

•••

Shyra let out a tired sigh as she stood before the dresser, gently removing the glimmering pieces of jewelry that adorned her. Her fingers moved with a mixture of precision and weariness, the weight of the day settling in her bones. Her gaze met her reflection in the mirror – eyes that once sparkled were now dulled by exhaustion, a flush of frustration across her cheeks.

"Kabir, tum kab good news suna rahe ho?" With a twinkle in her eye, Nudrat teased Kabir, her tone lighthearted yet sly.

(Kabir, when will you tell us the good news?)

A warm blush crept up Kabir's cheeks, his normally confident demeanor replaced with a charming bashfulness. Shyra, her heart racing, felt her cheeks flush as well, her gaze shifting to the ground. Kabir's aunty's words had struck a chord, tapping into the unspoken dreams they both held in their hearts.

"Mami, aap bhi," Kabir looked at Shyra, his eyes silently communicating both his discomfort and a plea for understanding. He turned back to his aunty, his voice carrying a mix of humor and embarrassment, "Abhi toh humari shadi hui hai, abhi aisa koi plan nahi."

(We just got married, we aren't planning anything anytime soon.)

The tension that had briefly filled the air seemed to dissipate, replaced by chuckles and nods of approval from Nudrat. Kabir's response was intended to assure Shyra, to let her know that he wasn't in a rush, that their love was enough for the present moment.

Yet, unknown to him, Shyra's heart sank. She had been carrying a secret, a tiny yet significant life growing within her. She had hoped to reveal her pregnancy to Kabir after the wedding, to share their joy in private before letting the world in on their happiness. But Kabir's words had unintentionally wounded her, reminding her that her plan had been thwarted.

As the bedroom door creaked open, Kabir stepped in. He has just returned after dropping Ana to her home.

Kabir observed Shyra closely, noticing the way she seemed lost in thought, her usually vibrant energy now replaced with a sense of detachment. Concern etched his features, knowing that something was amiss. He approached her slowly, his footsteps cautious on the soft carpet.

"Shyra," he said softly, which startled Shyra. "Are you okay?"

Shyra's shoulders tensed as his voice broke her thoughts. Her brows furrowed, and a sigh escaped her lips, a mix of exhaustion and frustration. She turned to Kabir, her eyes carrying a hint of irritation.

She didn't say anything, and started taking off the earrings.

"Shyra! Kya hua hai, yaar? You were just fine, fir achanak se yeh..." Kabir went to stand beside her and asked her. He was frustrated now, thinking about what could probably upset her.

(Shyra! What happened? You were fine, then why so suddenly you...)

"Kuch bhi nahi hua hai," Shyra's tone was equally annoyed. Without sparing him any glance, she turned to leave, but Kabir reached out and gently caught the pallu of her saree, tugging her back towards him. Before she could, he wrapped his arms around her, caging her in his embrace.

(Nothing happened.)

"Kabir," Shyra's heart leaped in anxiety, as she looked at Kabir.

"Kya hua hai batao? Meri kisi baat se naraz ho?" Kabir's grip was firm, but his expression softened. He wasn't going to let her leave without resolving the issue which is bothering her.

(What happened tell me? Are you upset because of something I said?)

"Kuch bhi nahi hai." Shyra's irritation began to waver, the fire in her eyes slowly being replaced by a mix of emotions. She looked away, her anger melting into tears. She averted her gaze.

(There is nothing.)

"Yaar, ab tum ro to mat." Kabir pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her in a comforting embrace. They stood there for a moment, holding onto each other.

(Don't cry now.)

"I... it's nothing, I am just tired." She murmured, her voice quivering.

Kabir's eyes softened as he looked at her, his heart aching for the heaviness he sensed in her. "Aur kuch?" He cupped her cheeks and asked.

(Anything else?)

She finally met his gaze, vulnerability and fear dancing in her eyes. "Meri tabiyat theek nahi hai," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

(I was feeling sick,)

Kabir's brows furrowed in concern. "Tumne mujhe pehle kyu nahi bataya? Chalo abhi doctor ke paas chalte hain." He unwrapped his arms from her, and was about to go and pick the car keys. But Shyra held his hand and shook her head.

(Why didn't you tell me before? Come, let's go to doctor.)

Shyra's lips trembled, her emotions bubbling to the surface. "Maine Ayla api se baat ki,"

(I talked to Ayla api.)

"Kya kaha unhone?"

(What did she say?)

Shyra could only shook her head, as tears again welled in her beautiful eyes. Kabir's heart swelled with empathy as he once again pulled her into a tender embrace.

•••

In the softly lit room, Hanan closed the door with an excited grin. He turned to Ayat, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Sabse pehle tumhari munh dikhayi," he said, his voice filled with eagerness, "Mummy ne kaha tha tumhare liye koi jewellery le loon, but I know tumhe uska shokh nahi aur already sab log tumhe jewellery hi de rahe hain, isliye maine woh liya hai jo tumhe sabse achha lagega."

(First your wedding gift.)

(Mummy told me to buy a jewellery for you, but I know you don't like wearing jewelleries, and everyone is giving you jewelleries so I thought to get you something which you will like.)

"Kya?" Ayat's eyes widened in delight, mirroring Hanan's excitement. She couldn't help but smile, her heart racing as she wondered what surprise awaited her. But when Hanan returned with a huge box in his arms, her joy seemed to shift into cautious curiosity.

(What?)

Holding the box out to her, Hanan's grin widened. "Dekho," he urged, his voice warm and inviting.

(See,)

"Hum itne pagal nahi hain." As Ayat saw the size of the box, a flicker of doubt crossed her face. She took a step back, her gaze narrowing slightly.

(I am not that stupid.)

"Kya matlab?" Confusion clouded Hanan's eyes.

(What do you mean?)

"Kya matlab kya? Kya hum apko jante nahi? I know not to take boxes from you. I am not gonna fall for that."

(What do you mean what? Don't I know you?)

"Ayat, tum kya..." Hanan become even more confused now. Why can't she take a box from him?

(Ayat, what are...)

"Hum kya? Hume kuch yaad ho ya na ho, but humare 4th Birthday pe woh bada sa box hume achhe se yaad hai. Hum nahi le rahe yeh." Ayat's expression remained cautious, and she folded her arms, still maintaining a safe distance from the box.

(I what? I may not remember anything else, but I remember the huge box on my 4th birthday very well. I am not gonna take that.)

"Arey," Realisation dawned in his grey eyes, as he chuckled, shaking his head. "Isme cockroach nahi, pakka."

(There is no cockroach in this, promise.)

"Spider honge?"

(Then it must be spiders?)

"Koi prank nahi hai, yaar, itna toh bharosa rakho."

(It's not a prank, trust me.)

"Aap pe bharosa?"

(Trust you?)

"Okay, fine, past mein bohot pranks kiye hain tumpe, but I am a changed man now." He admitted sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck.

(I may have pulled lots of pranks on you in past,)

"Nahi, nahi, nahi..." Ayat was still scared of the box in his hands. She didn't want to receive any prank on her wedding night.

(No, no, no...)

"Arey, suno toh..." Just as Hanan was about to reassure her further, a soft sound emanated from the box—a sound Ayat recognized all too well. Her eyes widened in surprise, her heart skipping a beat. Without a second thought, she reached out, taking the box from Hanan's hands, her fingers trembling with anticipation.

(Listen to me...)

Carefully opening the box, Ayat's eyes widened in pure astonishment. Nestled within the confines of the box was a tiny, fluffy ragdoll kitten. Its huge, innocent blue eyes blinked up at her, and a gentle purr filled the air.

"Allah," A whisper left her lips, as she looked up at Hanan. her heart brimming with happiness. She always wanted a cat, but Rubab never allowed her. Hanan was looking at her with poker look, as if saying she was doubting him without any reason.

"Thank you," but Ayat's beautiful smile melts his anger.

Ayat gently lifts the kitten in her arms, a radiant smile spread across her face. She looked up at Hanan, her heart full. "Thank you so much, Hanan." She murmured, her voice trembling with emotion. This indeed the most beautiful present.

"Koi baat nahi, ab achha thori lagega Hanan Khan ki biwi mohalle ki cats ko kidnap kare."

(Mention not, it won't look good if Hanan Khan's wife will steal others cats.)

Ayat glare at him on his words, but she didn't say anything. Right now, this kitten in her arms means a lot to her.

In that moment, as the kitten purred contently and Ayat held it close, "Kitne pyare hain yeh, inka name kya hai?" She was talking to the cat with so much tenderness, which made Hanan's smile faltered. He was definitely the first groom ever who is being ignored on his wedding night because of a kitten.

(He is so cute, what's his name?)

"Ayat," Hanan called her, trying to remind her of his presence too.

"Inka name kya hai?" She asked, being oblivious.

(What's his name?)

"Kuch bhi rakhdo."

(You can give him a name.)

"Hum rakhein?" She excitedly asked, then she raised the cat to her face. "Inki ankhein toh humari tarah hai... Blueberry! Inka name blueberry." She kissed the kitten's face and announced. The kitten purred in reply, as if he approves of the name.

(I can?)
(His eyes are just like mine... Blueberry! His name is Blueberry.)

"Bas bhi karo, ho gaya na." Hanan walked forward, and took the kitten from her.

(Now, it's enough.)

"Kya hua?" Ayat could not understand his reaction.

(What happened?)

"Aaj nahi dena chahiye tha, kal dena chahiye tha." Hanan mumbles to himself. As he took the kitten out.

(I shouldn't have given you this tonight, should have waited till morning.)

"Kaha le ja rahe hain?" She blinked, her lips slightly parted, struggling to process his words

(Where are you taking him?)

"Mummy ke paas, abhi filhal isko mummy dekh lengi." he suggested, a hint of tension in his voice. "You can play with him tomorrow."

(I am taking him to mummy, he will stay with her for tonight.)

Ayat's smile faltered, replaced by a touch of disappointment. She opened her mouth to protest, but Hanan had already turned away and left the room, taking the kitten with him.

Left alone, Ayat's shoulders slumped. She gazed at the door, her expression hold sadness.

When Hanan returns, Ayat didn't meet his eyes, "Kya hua?" Hanan asked, but Ayat turned away.

(What happened?)

"Blueberry ko kal le lena yaar, Aaj humari wedding night hai..." He tried to coax her, going to hee, he held her hand and told her. Ayat's back was facing him, he couldn't see her blue eyes flickering with mischief.

(You can have Blueberry tomorrow, it's our wedding night...)

"Haan, waise bhi hume neend arahi hai, hum change karne ja rahe..." Saying this, she removed his hand off her.

(Yeah, I am very tired, I am going to sleep...)

"Ek minute kaha?"

(One minute, where are you going?)

"Sone," Innocently, she answered.

(To sleep,)

"Itni jaldi?" Hanan walked after her.

(So soon?)

"Hanan, waqt dekhe, itna late ho raha hai." Ayat reminded him of the time.

(Hanan, look at the time, it's too late.)

"Haan toh itna waqt rasmo mein chala gaya main kya karu?" Ayat was walking toward washroom, and Hanan following after her.

(So much time was wasted in rituals, what could I do?)

Ayat shrugged her shoulder, as she turned to head toward the washroom. Hanan reached out instinctively, catching the edge of her dupatta in his hand, halting her in her tracks.

"Abhi tumse sarey badle bhi lene hain, itni jaldi toh nahi sone dunga." His lips curved into a tender smile, and he took a step closer, his voice a soft whisper. But as he tugged on the dupatta with a gentle pull to make her fall in his arm, the fabric caught in her hair.

(I have to take my revenge on you too, I am not gonna let you sleep so soon.)

"Ouch!" A sharp yelp of pain escaped Ayat's lips.

"Kya hua?" Hanan got scared.

(What?)

"Ouch! Hanan, humare baal!" she exclaimed, blinking back tears as she turned to face him, with surprise and pain on her face.

(My hair!)

Hanan's eyes widened in alarm, and he immediately released the dupatta, his expression full of regret. "I'm so sorry,"
he murmured, reaching out to gently untangle her hair from the fabric.

"Yeh itni pins kyu hain?" He exclaimed, as he saw so many pins holding the dupatta on her shoulder and head.

(Why there are so many pins?)

"Itna heavy dupatta aur kaise set hoga?" Ayat asked,

(To hold this heavy dupatta together.)

"But itne?" He was busy in removing the pins from her dupatta, as he continued to untangle her hair, the tension between them lifted, replaced by shared laughter and a growing sense of intimacy. In that imperfect moment, they discovered that even mishaps could lead to cherished memories.

•••

"Bas bhi karo, yaar, ab mera dil baith raha hai." Kabir whispered softly, his hand gently rubbing her back.

(Stop crying now, my heart is sinking now.)

Shyra's shoulders shook as she cried, her emotions overwhelming her. The comfort of Kabir's embrace was exactly what she needed in that moment. As she calmed down. "I.. I am sorry," she manages to speak between her sobs.

"Tum rona band karo bas," Wiping her tears, he told her.

(Stop crying now.)

"Kabir, main... mujhe apko kuch batana tha."

(Kabir, I... I want to tell you something.)

Kabir held her a little tighter, his eyes locked onto hers, silently urging her to continue. "Haan bolo,"

(Yes?)

"Woh..." Shyra didn't know how to say it. Earlier, it was her shyness that she couldn't say, but now, fear took over her body.

(I...)

"I-I'm pregnant," Shyra finally revealed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Kabir's eyes widened, as he take in her words. A smile slowly spread across his face. He cupped Shyra's cheeks in his hands, his eyes shining with happiness. "Wakai? You... you're pregnant?" He repeated, his voice filled with joy.

(Really?)

Surprise wash over her face, she has braced herself for a different reaction after what Kabir said to his aunty, but seeing Kabir's elated expression was beyond anything she had imagined.

"Aap khush hain?" She asked, still not believing it.

(You are happy?)

"Khush?" Kabir's laughter filled the room as he pulled her into an even tighter hug. "Shyra, you have no idea how happy this makes me. I can't wait to be a father."

(Happy?)

Shyra's tears turned from ones of sorrow to ones of overwhelming happiness. She buried her face in Kabir's chest, feeling his heartbeat against her cheek.

"Yeh batao, tum ro kyu rahi thi?" He then suddenly recalls it breaking the hug, he asked.

(Tell why were you crying?)

"Aap... apne Nudrat mami ko kaha ki..." Her voice trembled.

(You... you said to Nudrat mami that...)

"Woh? Shyra, tum pagal ho. Come on, uss waqt toh genuine reaction toh yahi tha na. Agar mujhe zara sa bhi iss news ka maloom hota main toh puri duniya mein ailan kar deta."

(That? Shyra, are you crazy? Come on, anyone's genuine reaction would have been same. If I had know about this news, I would have announced it to the world.)

"Bas! Duniya mein koi ailan nahi karna."

(Enough! No need to announce it to the world.)

Kabir looked deeply into her eyes. "Main wakai mein bohot khush hoon, Shyra. But please, agey aisa kuch bhi ho toh overthinking na karke, tum mujhse baat karna,"

(I am honestly very happy, Shyra. But please, do not overthink ever again, just talk to me.)

A shy smile fall on Shyra's face, as she nods her head, her cheeks tinged with rosy blush. She moved out of his arms, but before she could walk away, something tugged her saree pallu, making her stumble, as she once again fall in Kabir's arms.

"Bas issi liye mujhe saree bohot achhi lagti hai." Chuckling, he holds her closer.

(That's why I like saree.)

Blushing even more, Shyra playfully scolded him. "Kabir, ab apko ehtiyat karna hoga."

(Kabir, you have to be careful now.)

"Ehtiyat? Oh," Kabir's expression turned more serious, his tone gentle. "Don't worry, tumhara aur chotu dono ka khayal rakhunga."

(Careful?)
(Don't worry, I will take care of you and junior.)

Shyra smiled softly, her fingers tracing patterns on his chest. "We're lucky to have you."

Kabir grinned mischievously. "I am lucky to have you... Waise, there's something about you in a saree that makes it even more impossible for me to let go." He winked playfully.

Shyra rolled her eyes, her laughter tinkling like wind chimes. "Abhi ehtiyat ki baat ki hai."

(I just told you to be careful.)

Their playful banter continued, "haan toh, I will be careful."

(Yes,)

"Kabir!"

"Mazak kar raha hoon," Laughing, he pulled her close to his heart.

(I am kidding,)

Kabir placed a hand over her belly, his expression tender. "Yeh abhi hume sunn sakta hai?"

(Can he hear us right now?)

"Nahi, zahir hai." Playing with his kurta's button, Shyra answered.

(No, obviously,)

"Kab sunega?"

(When will he hear us?)

"Ayla api se puch lijiyega. Unhone kal Hospital bulaya hai check up ke liye."

(You can ask Ayla api tomorrow. She told me come to the hospital for check up.)

"Sab theek haina?" He grew worried for her.

(Is everything okay?)

"Haan, normal check up hain."

(Yes, just normal check up.)

"Waise tumhe pata kab chala?"

(When did you got to know?)

"Aaj hi."

(Today,)

"Abhi kitna time hua hoga?"

(How long its been?)

"Zyada toh nahi hua hoga zahir hai."

(Not much, obviously.)

"Aur kitna time lagega..."

(And how much time...)

"Bas kar dein, Kabir. Main bhi utni hi clueless hoon jitna aap." Shyra was tired of his questions.

(Enough, Kabir. I am just as clueless as you.)

"Sorry," He mumbles, and shuts up, but only for few minutes.

"Larka hoga ya larki?"

(Will it be a boy or girl?)

"Kabir," Shyra called him in a warning.

"Just curious."

"What do you want?" Raising her head, she asked.

"Eh, pata nahi, I mean, Arsalan mujhe bohot azeez hai, but Azrin bhi utni hi pyari hai, mujhe toh dono chalenge."

(I don't know. I mean, I love Arsalan, but Azrin is also very dear to me. Anything will be good for me.)

Shyra smiles at this, she doesn't know what she wants either, but whatever it is, she wants it to take after Kabir. As Kabir continued to hold her, they talked about their baby. And with each word, Shyra's heart swelled with love for the man who had exceeded her every expectation.

•••

"Kisne kaha tha itne pins lagane ko?" Hanan murmured, his tone was filled with exasperation.

(Who told you to use so much pins?)

In a softly lit room adorned with flowers and candles, Hanan and Ayat sat side by side on the edge of the bed. Hanan's fingers worked diligently, his touch careful and considerate as he carefully unpinned the fabric. As he did, he couldn't help but grumble softly, a playful complaint about the weight of the lehenga she wore. Ayat's lips curved into a fond smile, her gaze holding a hint of mock reproach.

"Itna heavy dupatta hai, Hanan, pins ke begair kaise set hota?" She chuckled softly,

(It's such a heavy dupatta, Hanan, it would have fall without pins.)

"Toh itna heavy pehenne ki zaroorat kya thi?"

(Why did you wear such a heavy lehenga?)

"Chachi se puche, woh layi hain."

(Ask chachi, she is the one who bought it.)

Hanan raised an eyebrow, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Of course, mummy ka apni shadi mein jo nahi hua, sab iss shadi mein unhone arman pure kiye hain. But still, Ayat, tum unhe keh deti kuch simple lane ko. Function mein bhi tum theek se chal nahi pa rahi thi."

(Whatever mummy couldn't do in her wedding, she did it in mine. But still, Ayat, you could have tell her to buy something simple for you. You couldn't even walk.)

"Chal heels ki wajah se nahi kar pa rahe the. Aur kya simple pehente? T-shirt trousers mein ajate?" Ayat's lips curved into a mischievous smile as she retorted. Her tone mirrored the taunt Rubab had directed at her earlier in the day.

(I couldn't walk because of heels. And what do you mean by simple? You want me to come to the venue in t-shirts and trousers?)

Hanan chuckled, the corners of his lips twitching. "Well, you know, I wouldn't have minded that. Kam se kam iss waqt pins remove karne ke alawa kuch aur kar rahe hote hum."

(At least we would have been doing something else right now.)

With the last pin finally removed, Ayat's dupatta cascaded down gracefully, revealing her radiant smile. Hanan let out a relieved breath, "Finally!" His fingers running through his hair as he leaned back against the plush pillows. The weight of the day seemed to settle on him, but as he gazed at Ayat, his eyes softened with affection.

Hanan extended his arm towards her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. Ayat's eyes lit up with happiness, and she eagerly laid her head on his arm, her face glowing with happiness.

As Hanan pulled her closer, a flicker of discomfort crossed Ayat's expression. She shifted slightly and sat up, a delicate frown forming on her forehead. "Ouch," she murmured, her fingers instinctively touching the intricate earrings and ornate jewelry that adorned her. The weight of her adornments had caused an unintended prick.

"Kya hua?" Hanan's brow furrowed, a hint of concern replacing his initial warmth. He watched as Ayat adjusted herself, a mix of emotions crossing his features – understanding, worry, and a trace of frustration.

(What's wrong?)

"Jewellery," Ayat mumbles, and started taking off her earrings.

"Here, let me help you." Hanan said, as he again sat up.

"My ears are hurting now." Ayat's voice carried a soft complaint, and Hanan's heart sank slightly.

He wanted nothing more than to make her happy, to create an atmosphere of pure bliss. Yet, as the evening had unfolded, it seemed that a series of small mishaps had managed to creep into their plans, dampening his hopes for a seamless romantic night.

"Tumhe koi zaroorat nahi abse itna heavy kuch bhi pehenne ki." Hanan commanded, as he took off her earrings. Her ear has turned red due to wearing such a heavy earrings, which made Hanan more upset. Leaning toward her, he placed a tender kiss on her earlobe where the jewelry had been, making Ayat shivers, his lips lingered, and as he moved to remove a necklace, he left another gentle kiss on her exposed neck. For every piece of jewellery he removes from her, he placed a soft, gentle kiss there.

(You don't have to wear anything like this again.)

The jewelleries were removed from her now, as Hanan cupped her cheeks, and confess. "I love you," he leaned down toward her, but before his lips could meet hers, the resonant call to morning prayer echoed through the room, causing Ayat to gently push him away, her eyes dancing with amusement and devotion.

"Yaar," Hanan groaned, making Ayat giggles. She has completely pushed him away from her, and picked her dupatta to cover her head.

"Chaliye, uthiye, namaz parh lein." As the sound of the prayer fadded. Teasingly, she urged him to get up.

(Come on, get up, we have to offer namaz.)

"Chalo," Hanan stood up.

(Come,)

•••

After completing their prayer, Hanan and Ayat sat side by side on the prayer rugs, the tranquil air of the room carrying a sense of warmth and serenity. Ayat's eyes were closed as she fervently whispered her supplications, her lips moving gently in the intimate act of communicating with her Creator. Hanan watched her with a soft smile, his heart swelling with gratitude.

As Ayat's dua continued, Hanan's thoughts turned to the journey they had both undertaken to reach this moment. The trials and tribulations they had faced individually and together seemed like distant memories now, faded by the radiant glow of their newfound union. With a sense of profound thankfulness, Hanan raised his hands.

"Alhamdulillah," he began, his heart sincere and resonant, "for bringing Ayat into my life. For guiding us through the twists and turns that led us to this point. For the patience and strength that carried us through the challenges we faced."

Ayat's eyes opened, and she turned her gaze to Hanan, his eyes were closed, and face relaxed. The room seemed to hold its breath as she stared at him for some moment, then she shyly looked down.

Hanan continued, his words carrying a weight of emotion. "Allah, we are truly grateful for the chance to stand here today, united in marriage, our hearts aligned in faith and love. For the laughter that now fills our days, and the comfort of knowing we have a partner to share our burdens with."

"Together, we will continue to grow, to learn, and to support one another. Ya Allah, bless this union with Your grace, protect it with Your mercy, and guide us on the path of righteousness."

•••

Hanan found himself exhausted and sprawled on the bed. Ayat's heart swelled with affection as she watched him, removing her dupatta from her head, she went to sit beside him. She couldn't resist running her fingers through his hair, soothing him.

Hanan let out a contented sigh as Ayat's fingers worked their magic, and he gradually shifted his head, resting it on her lap. A hint of a smile tugged at his lips as he commented, "Main pehla aisa dulha hoon jisne nikkah aur baraat wale din itna sab jhela hai."

(I may be the first groom who have been through so much trouble on his nikkah and barat day.)

Ayat chuckled softly, her fingers still caressing his hair.

"Hanan," In the quiet intimacy of the room, Ayat's voice was barely more than a whisper. In return, Hanan hummed.

"I love you," Slowly, she confess,

Her words hung in the air, a vulnerable declaration that caused Hanan to open his eyes, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten.

"Kya? Firse kehna?" He sat up in front of her, his eyes widening, as he asked.

(What? Say it again?)

Ayat chuckled softly, a melodious sound that danced through the room. "Humne kaha I love you," she repeated, her voice still soft, her gaze unwavering.

(I said...)

A playful smirk tugged at the corner of Hanan's lips. "Hmm, sunayi nahi diya," he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

(I couldn't catch that.)

Ayat's eyes narrowed, and a mock scowl formed on her face. "Apne sunn liya hai, drama na karein." She retorted, her tone a blend of annoyance and amusement.

(You heard it, no need to do drama.)

Hanan grinned, feigning innocence. "Shakk na karo, Ayat, mujhe wakai kuch sunayi nahi diya, firse kehna."

(Don't doubt me, Ayat, I honestly can not hear what you said. Say it again.)

Her patience wearing thin, Ayat leaned in closer, her lips almost brushing his ear. "I. Love. You. Hanan," she enunciated each word with a deliberate emphasis.

Hanan's eyes widened dramatically, his eyebrows shooting up. "Shayad maine apna naam suna, lekin uske pehle ka kuch samajh nahi aya."

(I think I heard my name, but I couldn't hear what you said before it.)

Rolling her eyes, Ayat let out an exasperated sigh. "You're impossible," she muttered, though a playful glint remained in her eyes.

Seizing the moment, Hanan suddenly feigned confusion. "Meri kya galti?"

(What's my fault?)

A burst of laughter escaped Ayat, her irritation melting into genuine amusement.

Before he could say anything, Ayat let out a playful shriek, then cupped her hands around her mouth and shouted directly into his ear, "I LOVE YOU, HANAN!"

Hanan flinched, his face contorting in surprise, as he hold his ear where she just shout. "Ab yeh naya izafa karna hai kya ki shadi wali raat main behra ho gaya tha?"

(Do you want to make me deaf on my wedding night?)

"Haan toh kisne kaha itna drama karne ke liye?"

(Who told you to do drama?)

His surprise reaction was quickly replaced by a hearty laugh that filled the room.

He pulled Ayat into his arms, his laughter dying down as he gazed at her affectionately. "I love you more," he whispered, his voice sincere and full of warmth.

As they held each other in the quiet embrace of the night, their hearts intertwined, the teasing and laughter faded away, leaving only the profound connection that had brought them together.

•••

The soft rays of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. Hanan gazed at Ayat, who lay curled up beneath the sheets. Her hair fanned out on the pillow, her delicate features softened in slumber. His heart swelled with awe as he watched her sleep.

With gentle steps, he approached the bed, his steps barely making a sound on the soft carpet. Hanan knelt down beside Ayat and reached out to brush a strand of hair away from her forehead. His touch was feather-light, a testament to his tenderness.

"Good morning, my love," Hanan murmured, his voice a mere whisper. He leaned in, placing a soft kiss on Ayat's forehead. Her eyelashes fluttered, and she let out a faint sigh, still in the clutches of sleep.

Hanan's fingers traced the contours of Ayat's cheek, his touch a reflection of the adoration that flowed within him. He marveled at the way her face held a serene beauty even in sleep, her features relaxed and tranquil.

Gently, Hanan started to caress Ayat's arm, his fingers moving in a soothing rhythm. He leaned in once more, this time planting a soft kiss on her cheek. "Uth jao, Ayat," he whispered, his words filled with affection and playfulness both.

(Wake up, Ayat,)

Ayat stirred, her lips curling into a small, sleepy smile. Her eyelids fluttered open, revealing her sleepy gaze. "No," she mumbled, her voice still heavy with drowsiness. Ayat found comfort in Hanan's presence. Sleeping alone often proved difficult for her after her accident, but with Hanan by her side, she fall asleep with ease.

Hanan's smile widened, his eyes filled with warmth. "Yaar, subah ho gayi," he replied, his fingers gently brushing against her skin. "Time to wake up."

(It's morning.)

"Nahi na, waise bhi kitna late soye the."

(No, we slept so late.)

"Achha?" Smirking, Hanan's eyebrow shot up.

(Really?)

Ayat's body flushed, she put blanket over her face to avoid looking at him.

Hanan playfully reaches for the edge of the blanket, intending to pull it off, "Uth rahi ho ya main uthau?"

(Are you gonna wake up or should I pick you up?)

"Yaar," Ayat groaned. Angrily, she removed the blanket off her eyes and glare at him.

"Uth jao," He playfully poked her side, earning him an annoyed groan from Ayat.

(Get up,)

As Hanan's persistent attempts to rouse her continued, Ayat's patience began to wane. She shot him a half-hearted glare before finally tossing the blanket aside and sliding off the bed, she knew he won't let her sleep again. "You're impossible, I hate you." She muttered, her voice was still sleepy, as well as filled with irritation.

A mischievous glint danced in Hanan's eyes as he caught hold of the blanket Ayat had discarded. With a sly smile, he gently tugged at the blanket, pulling Ayat closer to him. "Par kal raat toh tum kuch aur keh rahi thi," he teased, his tone laced with amusement.

(But you were saying something else last night.)

A faint blush crept across Ayat's cheeks on the reminder of the night. "I..." her lips quirking into a reluctant smile, as she failed to answer.

"Hmm? Kya keh rahi thi tum kal?" He again reminded her, with a playful smirk, as his fingers running on her arm.

(What were you saying last night?)

"Aap..." Goosebumps arises on Ayat's skin, when she couldn't say anything, the only sane thing which came to her mind was pushing him away, which she did, and Hanan fall on the bed.

(You...)

"I said I hate you," she retorted, and turned to head for the washroom. Hanan, however, wasn't one to back down easily. Quickly, he followed her with a grin, only to find the door already locked. "Ayat, jaan, open the door." He called out, knocking on the door.

Ayat's laughter echoed from behind the closed door, and she called back, "bilkul nahi!"

(Absolutely not!)

He laughed at her response, then shaking his head, he moved toward the dresser. He was already ready for the day. As he reached for his wristwatch, his gaze inadvertently fell upon the delicate red bangles that lay on the table, glistening in the soft light. His fingers brushed over them, feeling a rush of emotions. A fragment of Ayat's presence has now filled every corner of his room.

He remembered the days when this room and his life had felt empty, the walls echoing with solitude. But now, it was as if Ayat's laughter had painted the walls with joy, her touch had woven love into the very fabric of their surroundings. Hanan's heart swelled with gratitude for this, for the way Ayat had transformed his world.

•••

So much sweetness in a single chapter, I was literally... cringe nahi kahungi, but close to cringe... I was like yeh jaldi jaldi ho jaye bas 🐒

Khair, how's it? Do vote and comment

-Ufaq