Chapter 56 is up on stck 💕
•••
When Nomi returned home that evening, he was in a cheerful mood, humming under his breath, his hair still tousled by the evening breeze. But the moment he stepped into the haveli, an odd stillness greeted him. The air felt heavy, as if something serious had happened.
“Kya hua, nani?” He asked, noticing Rubab sitting quietly in the lounge. But before she could answer, Azlan walked in, his face serious.
(What happened, nani?)
Immediately, Nomi straightened up. His hand brushed through his hair, fixing the waves, he buttoned the top of his shirt and adjusted his collar like a soldier reporting for duty.
“Sab theek haina?” He asked, glancing between them.
(Is everything alright?)
“Tumhari bua ki phone aya tha,” Azlan said, sitting beside Rubab. “Tumhare bade papa ki tabiyat theek nahi hai, he's serious.”
(Your aunt called.)
(Your uncle isn’t well, he’s serious.)
“Nahi toh,” Nomi blinked. “Abhi maine bade papa ko bahar dekha, badi mummy ke sath kahi ja rahe the. Momo keh rahi thi date pe ja rahe hain shayad.”
(No way,)
(I just saw him outside with auntie. Momo said they’re probably going on a date.)
Azlan’s lips parted to respond, but when he realized what Nomi meant, he shut them again, suppressing a sigh. “Main Kaif ki baat nahi kar raha.”
(I’m not talking about Kaif.)
That made Nomi pause, confusion flickering in his eyes.
“Tumhare gaov se phone tha.” Azlan added quietly.
(There was a call from your village.)
“Oh,” Understanding dawned. His expression changed at once. “Allah unhe sehet dein.” he murmured softly, looking away.
(May Allah give him health.)
“Woh tumhara puch rahe the. Tumhari inn dino chutti hai toh ek do din ho aao waha.” Azlan continued, his voice gentler now.
(He was asking about you. You’re on break these days, so go visit for a couple of days.)
“Baba, main kaha ja paunga. Abhi Ehan bhai ki engagement, phir college ki chuttiya bhi toh khatam hone wali hai...” Nomi tried to sound careless, but the way his eyes darted and his tone softened gave him away.
(Baba, how can I go right now. Ehan bhai’s engagement is coming up, and my college holidays are about to end too…)
Azlan opened his mouth to say something more, but Rubab placed her hand lightly over his, signaling him to stop. Nomi stood up and walked away.
•••
Later that evening, Ehan stormed into the girls’ room.
“Theek hai, meri engagement ho rahi hai.” he said. “Main ab single nahi rahunga, badi baat hai. Lekin iss baat pe matam ka mohol kyu hai?”
(Alright, I’m getting engaged.)
(I won’t be single anymore, that’s a big deal. But why does everyone look like they’re mourning it?)
The room was unusually quiet. Everyone was there except Shahnan. Layla sat curled up on a beanbag in the corner, clutching a cushion, silently observing. She’d heard from Sharfa that everyone gathered here most evenings, and since she wouldn’t be around much longer, she didn’t want to be the reason they adjust themselves.
Eifa only raised her brows and tilted her head toward Nomi.
Ehan followed her gaze and spotted Nomi sulking. “Nomi, meri shadi hai, usoolan mujhe afsos karna chahiye, tum kis khushi mein Madhubala bane ho?” he teased, sitting beside him and throwing an arm around his shoulder.
(Nomi, I’m the one getting married, so technically I should be upset. Why are you acting like a tragic heroine?)
“Kuch nahi, Ehan bhai.” Nomi said, trying to play it cool.
(It’s nothing, Ehan bhai.)
“Kuch nahi hai toh meri engagement pe khudpe attention lene ki zaroorat nahi. Apne time banana yeh roti surat.”
(If it’s nothing, then stop stealing the attention from my engagement. Save that dramatic face for your own time.)
Nomi smiled faintly. “Nahi, bas mujhe apke future ka sochke afsos ho raha hai.”
(No, I was just feeling sorry for your future.)
Ehan blinked. “Mere future ka sochke tumhe kyu afsos ho raha hai?”
(Why are you feeling sorry for my future?)
“Shahnan bhai jaise maghroor insan ko Eifa ne kaise apne agey piche lagaya hua hai. Kian bhai ko bhi maine 20 saal mein itna sorry kehte nahi suna, jitna 2 din mein suna hai. Mujhe bas fikar hai apka kya hoga shadi ke baad.” Nomi said it seriously, but except for Ehan and Kian, everyone else burst out laughing.
(Because look at Shahnan bhai, how did Eifa manage to have such a proud man wrapped around her finger. Even Kian bhai, I’ve never heard him say so many sorrys in twenty years as he has in two days. I’m just worried about you. What’s going to happen after your marriage.)
Eifa cover her face a hand to hide her laugh, while Ishmal, Eira, and Momo burst out giggling. Even Layla managed a small smile.
“Kya kaha?” Kian’s voice darkened.
(What did you just say?)
“Sach,” Nomi replied with innocence.
(The truth.)
“Beta, tum zyada udho mat.” Ehan warned. “Par katne mein mujhe waqt nahi lagega.”
(Boy, don’t fly too high.)
(It won’t take me long to cut your wings.)
“Ab apke katne wale hain par, ghar pe rehne ki adat daal lein.” Nomi grinned. And just in time, he got up and moved to sit beside Eifa for his own protection.
(Your wings are about to get cut. You better get used to staying home.)
Layla looked at Ehan carefully. His face didn’t show the slightest hint of discomfort at the mention of marriage or engagement. She couldn’t understand why Eira had said that he didn’t want to get married, he looked perfectly fine, even cheerful.
“Tum akele mein milo.” Ehan cracked his knuckles.
(Meet me outside.)
Eifa, suppressing a smile, placed a hand on Nomi's shoulder. “Achha bas,”
(Okay, enough.)
Ehan exhaled dramatically, then turned to the others. “Chalo, comedy bohot ho gayi. Sab log ek ek karte batao kya masla hai.”
(Enough with comedy. Everyone, one by one, tell me what's wrong.)
He looked around. Eifa, Ishmal, Momo, Kian — everyone was oddly quiet.
“Momo,” Ehan said suddenly, pointing at her. “Sabse pehle tum batao. Tum itni khamosh kyu ho?” The sudden attention made Momo nervous; she froze, clearly uncomfortable being in the spotlight.
(You first. Why are you so quiet?)
“Hum?” Momo squeaked, wide-eyed.
(Me?)
Eira glanced at Momo, anyone else would’ve come up with an excuse instantly. But Momo never lies, even to save herself. So before Momo could stumble through an answer, Eira quickly spoke up, “Ehan bhai, pehle meri problem solve karein.”
(Ehan bhai, solve my problem first.)
Her words successfully diverted everyone’s attention away from Momo, who let out a quiet sigh of relief. Eifa, however, noticed the whole thing, Momo’s uneasiness, Eira’s timely rescue and couldn’t help but grow curious about what was really bothering Momo.
“Apki engagement hai Friday ko aur mere paas kapre nahi.” Eira said solemnly.
(Your engagement is on Friday and I have no clothes.)
“What?” Ehan asked, shocked. “Yeh toh bohot bada masla hai. Chalo, taiyyar ho, abhi chalte hain shopping pe.”
(That’s a big problem. Get ready, we’re going shopping right now.)
Eira’s face lit up instantly. “Really?”
“Shopping toh mujhe bhi karni hai.” Ishmal added.
(I need to shop too.)
“Taiyyar ho jao jisko jisko shopping pe jana hai.” Ehan said, waving a hand.
(Anyone who wants to shop, get ready.)
“Har jagah barat leke jana zaroori hai?” Kian rolled his eyes. “Tum Eifa aur Eira ko le jao. Ishmal ko main baad mein le jaunga.”
(Do you have to take everyone every where?)
(You take Eifa and Eira. I’ll take Ishmal later.)
Ishmal narrowed her eyes at him. Before she could fire back, Ehan smirked. “Main kya karu agar sabko mujhpe zyada trust hai. Tum bhi koi achha kaam karo, toh sab tumhare sath jane ke liye kahenge.”
(What can I do if everyone trusts me more? You do something good for once then everyone will want to go with you too.)
That made Kian scoff.
•••
“Tum bade bhai ho,” Eifa said pointedly as she sat beside Ehan in the car.
(You’re the eldest brother.)
“Thanks yaad dilane ke liye.” he replied cheekily, eyes fixed on the road ahead.
(Thanks for reminding me.)
In the backseat, Eira was lost in her phone, paying no attention to their conversation. Layla, however, was quietly listening. She kept her gaze turned toward the window, pretending to watch the passing scenery, but the voices from the front seat easily reached her ears.
“Toh tum kabhi toh bade ban jaya karo.” Eifa shot back.
(So act like one sometimes.)
“Ab kya kiya maine?” Ehan asked, glancing at her briefly.
(What did I do now?)
“Tumhe pata hai Nomi kyu upset hai.” she said, her tone full of reproach. “Tumhe uske sath aram se baat karni chahiye thi, kuch humdardi dikha dete. Kuch usko samjhate, lekin nahi. Usko Madhubala bana diya.”
(You know why Nomi’s upset.)
(You should’ve talked to him gently, shown some sympathy, tried to explain things, but no, you just called him Madhubala.)
“Kya ussey exactly kya samjhau main?” Ehan countered, still sounding indifferent.
(And what exactly was I supposed to explain?)
“Yahi ki woh ek din ke liye at least chala hi jaye apne bade papa se milne.” Eifa pressed.
(That he should at least go visit his uncle for a day.)
“Eifa,” Ehan said her name after a pause, his voice noticeably calmer yet more serious this time. The usual playfulness had drained away. “Nomi ko jissey nahi milna toh nahi milna.”
(If Nomi doesn’t want to meet them, he won’t.)
“Uske uncle hospitalized hain.” Eifa insisted, frowning at his lack of concern.
(His uncle’s hospitalized.)
Layla’s brow knitted in confusion. Hospitalized? Everyone at the haveli seemed fine. Who were they talking about? And if someone in the family was really ill, why were they all so composed about it?
“Khoon ek hone se rishte nahi bante, Eifa.” Ehan said firmly, his voice edged with conviction. “Nomi bachpan se humare sath raha hai, hum uski family hain. Jin logo ne kabhi usko khabar nahi li, jinko usne kabhi dekha tak nahi, ab achanak woh log milna chahte hain toh Nomi unhe apni family maan le? Aisa thori hota hai.”
(Blood alone doesn’t make a relationship, Eifa.)
(Nomi’s been with us since childhood, we’re his family. Those people who never checked on him, whom he’s never even met, suddenly want to see him, and now he’s supposed to accept them as family? That’s not how it works.)
Layla couldn’t help but look up at him then. There was something in his words that stirred a strange ache inside her. Maybe he sensed her gaze because he looked up through the rear-view mirror, and their eyes met for the briefest moment before Layla quickly turned away.
Before Eifa could argue again, Ehan pulled the car to a stop. They had reached the parking lot.
“Chalo,” he said curtly, his tone leaving no room for further discussion. Eifa swallowed her response and quietly stepped out.
(Let's go,)
Kian’s car arrived just then, and Layla along with Eira went toward Ishmal. Ehan gently caught Eifa’s wrist, making her pause.
“Eifa, suno.” he said softly. “Tum Nomi se iss barey mein koi baat mat karna. Hum normal rahenge tabhi woh normal hoga.”
(Eifa, listen.)
(Don’t talk to Nomi about this. We’ll stay normal, only then will he be normal too.)
Eifa looked at him, hesitated for a moment, then nodded silently in agreement.
•••
“Momo, aap kyu nahi gayi shopping pe sabke sath?” Rubab asked gently as she entered the room.
(Momo, why didn’t you go shopping with everyone?)
Sharfa was sitting cross-legged on the floor, her back resting against the sofa, scrolling lazily through her phone. The soft light from the lamp nearby reflected off her screen, illuminating her calm face. Rubab sat down on the sofa behind her, leaning forward slightly as her fingers affectionately combed through the girl’s hair.
“Nani, hume shopping nahi pasand. Hum bilkul bhi nahi jate shopping pe unless it's very important.” Sharfa replied without looking up.
(Nani, I don’t like shopping. I never go unless it’s very important.)
“Achha? Phir apke kapre kon khareedta hai?” Rubab asked with a small laugh, amused by her granddaughter’s seriousness.
(Really? Then who buys your clothes?)
“Mom,” Sharfa said simply with a small shrug.
The smile on Rubab’s face faltered for a moment, softening instead into tenderness. “Ayat shopping karti hain apke liye?” she asked, wanting to be sure.
(Does Ayat shop for you?)
Sharfa nodded. “Always. Kabhi kabhi mummy bhi. Hum nahi karte. Bohot boring hota hai.” she said with a little scrunch of her nose, her tone making Rubab chuckle.
(Always. Sometimes mummy does too. I don’t. It’s so boring.)
Rubab’s heart filled with an emotion both warm and wistful. She sometimes forgot that Ayat wasn’t that little girl anymore. The one who used to leave her own shopping for Rubab, Ayla, or Khushnuma, choosing instead to stay home with her books. That same Ayat was now a mother herself, doing all the things for her daughter that she once avoided doing for herself.
“Phir apke liye shopping hum karle?” Rubab suggested softly, brushing a strand of hair away from Sharfa’s face and cupping her cheek. “Ehan ki engagement mein pehenne ke liye apke paas kapre toh honge nahi?”
(Then should I shop for you?)
(You probably don’t even have clothes for Ehan’s engagement, do you?)
Sharfa’s face lit up instantly. “Nani, you are the best.” she exclaimed, grinning as she turned and hugged Rubab tightly, resting her head on her lap.
As she held her granddaughter close, Rubab couldn’t help but wonder how fast time had passed, from dressing up her own daughter, to watching Ayat do the same for hers.
•••
Layla hadn’t wanted to come shopping in the first place. But Eira had practically dragged her along, insisting that Eifa and Ishmal would get busy with their own shopping, at least someone would be there for her company.
Now standing inside the grand boutique, Layla regretted giving in.
The store was massive. White marble floors gleamed beneath crystal chandeliers, and soft instrumental music floated through the air. Rows of elegant gowns shimmered under golden lights, the scent of expensive perfumes lingered. The staff spoke in low, polished tones, offering coffee and mocktails to customers. Every wall gleamed with mirrors and glass shelves, reflecting the vibrant colors of silks and chiffons.
Layla, wrapped in her black abaya and niqab, felt completely out of place. She tugged her sleeves self-consciously, feeling as if everyone’s eyes were on her. Maybe it was just her imagination, when she glanced up, everyone seemed busy in their own world but still, she felt the weight of being different. The rich, relaxed atmosphere made her acutely aware of her background.
Across the store, Ishmal was holding up two dresses.
“Eifa, blue zyada achha ya green?” she called.
(Eifa, which looks better blue or green?)
Before Eifa could answer, Kian replied, “Dono nahi.”
(Neither.)
“I didn’t ask you,” Ishmal shot back and walked away, clearly unimpressed, leaving Kian to shake his head.
“Yeh Shahnan kaha hai?” Ehan asked, realizing his jija's absence as he carried a growing pile of shopping bags. He had been following Eifa from rack to rack, picking up every dress she pointed at, only to have her reject it seconds later.
(Where's Shahnan?)
“Usko chachu apne sath leke gaye hain kahi.” Eifa replied absently, still scanning a rack of dresses.
(Chachu took him somewhere.)
Ehan sighed sadly, then smirked as an idea struck. He pulled out his phone and called Shahnan.
“Ehan bhai, main papa ke sath hoon.” Shahnan said, confused why Ehan is calling him for shopping.
(Ehan bhai, I'm with papa.)
“Theek hai.” Ehan replied with exaggerated disappointment. “Maine toh bas isliye call ki thi kyuki Eifa kitna tumhara puch rahi thi, lekin koi baat nahi agar tum busy ho. Main Eifa ko samjha dunga.”
(Okay,)
(I just called because Eifa was asking about you, but never mind if you’re busy. I’ll explain to her.)
There was a pause. “Eifa puch rahi thi mera?”
(Eifa was asking about me?)
“Haan, lekin kya farq parhta hai.” Ehan hung up before Shahnan could say another word, looking very pleased with himself. Now Shahnan will come running, he thought smugly.
(Yes, but what difference does it make.)
As he turned around, his eyes landed on Layla, sitting quietly near the corner sofa, helping Eira. Eira kept picking dresses, rejecting them all within seconds, while Layla just nodded along politely, trying to stay invisible.
“Yaar, main kya soch raha tha...” Ehan announced loudly, clapping his hands once to get everyone’s attention. “Meri engagement hai, toh sabki shopping meri taraf se.”
(You know what I was thinking…)
(Since it’s my engagement, everyone’s shopping is on me.)
Everyone looked at him in surprise. “Seriously?” Eifa blinked.
“Kis khushi mein?” Kian asked flatly.
(What’s the occasion?)
“Bataya toh meri engagement hai.” Ehan said innocently.
(I told you, my engagement.)
Kian gave him a look. “Uske liye tum kitne khush ho mujhe pata hai.”
(I know how thrilled you are about that.)
“Ehan bhai, soch lijiye.” Ishmal teased, her eyes gleaming. “Lut jayenge aap.”
(Ehan bhai, think it through.)
(You’re going to be robbed.)
“Lutna hi toh chahta hoon.” Ehan grinned.
(That’s exactly what I want.)
Kian grabbed him by the neck and turned his face away. “Tameez se, meri biwi hai.”
(Watch your tongue, she’s my wife.)
Eira walked up to Eifa, groaning. “Mujhe yaha kuch samajh nahi araha.”
(I don’t like anything here.)
Eifa smiled knowingly and handed her a soft pink dress she’d already picked out earlier. “Yeh dekho.”
(Look at this.)
Eira barely glanced at it. “Absolutely not,”
“Just try it once.” Eifa shoved it into her hands, and with a little grumble, Eira disappeared into the trial room.
Meanwhile, Ehan nudged Eifa subtly and gestured toward Layla with his chin.
Eifa frowned at him but still walked over to where Layla sat. “Layla, tum kuch kyu nahi dekh rahi?” she asked gently.
(Layla, why aren’t you looking at anything?)
“Main? Main kya karungi? Mere paas kapre hain.” Layla blinked, startled.
(Me? What for? I already have clothes.)
“Woh toh hum sab ke paas hai.” Ishmal chimed in, walking past with a few outfits in hand. “Lekin aisi opportunity roz roz nahi ata. Yeh Ehan bhai bohot kanjoos hain. Ab agar samne se keh rahe hain, toh fyada uthao.” She winked and disappeared into the trial rooms again.
(We all do.)
(But we don’t get opportunities like this every day. Ehan bhai’s being generous, might as well take advantage.)
Layla looked uncertain. She knew Ehan’s offer was meant for his sisters, not for her. She didn’t want to seem greedy or out of place.
“Chalo,” Eifa insisted, taking her hand. “Kuch dekho toh at least.”
(Come on,)
(At least look at something.)
Layla hesitated, then stood up. She thought she’d just find something simple, something cheap, but when she glanced at the price tags, her heart sank. Even the plainest outfits here cost more than what her father had once earned in a month.
Eifa appeared beside her again. “Sab mujhe hi aise milte hain kya?” She said decisively, flipping through the dresses. “Main hi pasand kar deti hoon tumhare liye bhi.”
(Why does everyone leave it to me?)
(Fine, I’ll pick something for you too.)
“Yeh kaisa rahega?” Eifa pulled out a beautifully embroidered orange gown and held it up for Layla to see. But standing a little behind her, Ehan shook his head in disapproval. Eifa narrowed her eyes at him. Thankfully, Layla didn’t notice since she was busy admiring the dress.
(How about this?)
“Nahi,” Eifa said, putting the suit back without waiting for Layla’s response, leaving her looking confused.
(No,)
After a few moments, she pulled out a stunning deep teal blue dress. The long kurta reached the knees, its bodice intricately embroidered with delicate silver thread. The matching wide-legged shalwar shimmered faintly under the lights, and the dupatta, light and airy had sequined patterns and tiny beadwork that caught the light like stars.
Ehan gave a silent nod of approval. Eifa, relieved, smiled.
“Pyara hai,” Layla admitted softly, running her fingers over the fabric. “Lekin sleeves?”
(It's cute,)
(But the sleeves?)
“Sleeves ban jayegi,” Eifa assured her, handing the dress to her and walking away to find something for her.
(They'll made it.)
Layla held it carefully, as if afraid it might wrinkle under her touch. For a brief moment, she imagined herself wearing it, but then her eyes fell on the price tag.
Her breath caught. The number looked unreal.
Her hands froze before she quietly placed the dress back on the rack. Without saying a word, she turned and began walking away, her heart heavy with embarrassment.
A few seconds later, Ehan walked up, looking in the direction she had gone. Then, with a small sigh, he reached out and picked up the same teal dress she had left behind.
•••
Eifa stood in front of the mirror, draped in a soft white anarkali suit that shimmered faintly under the golden lights. The fabric was delicate sheer georgette layered over silk with silver threadwork curling like vines across the bodice. The frock flowed gracefully to her ankles, moving like a quiet ripple whenever she shifted. Tiny pearls traced the neckline, and the churidar hugged her legs perfectly, completing the ethereal look.
It was mesmerizing, but one problem remained, the back tie of her dress refused to cooperate. No matter how many times she tried, the small dori wouldn’t knot properly. Frustrated, she sighed and finally cracked the trial room door open, peeking her head out to find help.
But instead of one of the girls, she froze, Shahnan was standing right outside.
Her eyes widened in disbelief. “Tum kab aye?” she blurted out.
(When did you get here?)
“That’s quite a greeting,” he replied, a smile tugging at his lips.
Eifa opened her mouth to respond, but realization dawned. Of course, her own twin brother must be behind this.
“Ishmal ko bula do.” she asked, her tone clipped, trying to keep her composure.
(Call Ishmal.)
Her phone was in her purse, which she had handed to Ehan earlier, so she couldn’t even call Ishmal herself.
“Kyu? Main hoon na.” Shahnan said easily. “Bahar aaiye, main batata hoon kaisa lag raha hai yeh dress.”
(Why? I'm here.)
(Come out, I'll tell you how you're looking.)
“Mujhe ussey dress nahi dikhana.” she snapped.
(I don’t want to show her the dress.)
“Then?” His eyebrow arched.
Eifa pressed her lips together, hesitating. She didn’t want to admit the problem that she needed help tying the back. But the dress was too beautiful to leave unfinished. Finally, she muttered, “I can’t tie the knot… aur mujhe iski fitting dekhni hai. Isliye, please, Ishmal ko bula do.”
(I can’t tie this knot… and I need to check the fitting. So please, call Ishmal.)
Shahnan glanced around casually, then back at Eifa, her head barely visible from the door’s narrow gap. A slow smirk crept across his face, the kind that sent a flicker of warning through her chest. She gripped the handle tightly.
But for someone built like Shahnan, it didn’t take much. He caught her wrist gently but firmly, stepped forward, and in one smooth motion, guided her backward into the trial room before shutting and locking the door behind him.
Eifa’s breath caught. “What the...? Kya kar rahe ho tum?” she demanded, pressing herself back against the wall. The half-tied knot meant the upper part of her back was bare, soft skin against the cold air and though she faced away from him, the mirrors around them reflected everything.
(What the... what are you doing?)
“I’m just trying to help,” he said softly, his tone maddeningly calm.
“Bakwas na karo...” she started again, but he was close to her. His hand found her shoulder, gentle yet grounding, and he turned her slightly so her back faced him.
(Don’t talk nonsense...)
Her reflection met his in the mirror, his eyes focused on the small knot, his expression unreadable. His fingers brushed against her skin, warm and careful, tracing the thin ribbon before looping it into place. The contact sent a tremor through her body, goosebumps rising instantly along her spine.
Eifa tried to keep still, but her pulse betrayed her, thudding fast in her throat. She watched him through the mirror, his face close, eyes lowered, concentration flickering. When his fingers accidentally grazed her neck, she inhaled sharply and his lips curved, just slightly.
“By the way,” Shahnan murmured, his voice low, almost against her ear. “Mera favorite color red hai.”
(My favorite color is red.)
Eifa didn’t move. Didn’t breathe.
“Lekin main jab bhi apko white mein dekhta hoon...” he leaned in closer, their eyes locking in the mirror, “Toh lagta hai issey zyada khoobsurat color aur koi ho hi nahi sakta.”
(But whenever I see you in white…)
(It feels like no color could ever look more beautiful.)
Her hair had slipped to one side, exposing her neck completely. Without thinking or perhaps unable to stop himself, Shahnan lowered his head. His lips brushed lightly against her bare skin, a touch so soft it felt like a spark caught fire beneath her skin.
Her eyes fluttered shut. Every nerve in her body seemed to come alive at once while the white fabric glowed faintly in the light, but in that moment, it was her heartbeat that burned brighter than anything else.
Just as the air grew heavier between them a sharp knock shattered the silence.
“Eifa, kya tumhara trial room mein settle hone ka plan hai?” It was Ishmal.
(Eifa, are you planning to settle down in the trial room?)
Eifa froze, eyes wide in horror. Her mind went blank for a split second before panic surged through her veins. She spun around, staring at the closed door like it had betrayed her existence.
“Tum...” she whispered under her breath, voice trembling. “Tum mein sense nahi hai kya?” she hissed at Shahnan in a low, furious whisper. “Tum kyu hamesha... tum mujhe aisi situation mein... kya sochega koi hume aise dekhke? Tum zara kabhi thori si sharm kar liya karo.”
(You...)
(Do you have any sense?)
(Why do you always… you put me in situations like this... What will people think if they see us like this? Have a little shame sometimes.)
Shahnan, completely unbothered, leaned casually against the mirror, arms folded, watching her meltdown with a faint, amused smile tugging at his lips. Her flushed face, the way she was whispering so frantically, it was adorable.
“Why are you tensed?” he murmured, his voice deep with quiet laughter. “Husband wife hain hum, koi kuch nahi sochega.”
(We’re husband and wife, no one will think anything.)
Eifa shot him a death glare. “Husband wife hain toh trial room mein ek sath band hona kaha ki sharafat hai?” she whisper-yelled, clutching her frock in frustration. “Ishmal kya sochegi...”
(Even as husband and wife, being locked together in a trial room isn’t exactly decent?)
(What will Ishmal think...)
Before she could finish, knock knock.
“Eifa?” Ishmal’s voice now carried a hint of worry. “Are you okay in there?”
“Mere sath hi kyu...” Eifa muttered under her breath, pacing in the tiny space. She turned to glare at Shahnan again. “Hato, ek side mein raho, aur kuch kehna nahi.”
(Why always with me...)
(Move aside. Stay over there. And don’t say a word.)
Still grinning faintly, Shahnan raised his hands in surrender but didn’t move far.
With no choice left, Eifa opened the door, trying to compose herself. Her cheeks were still red, her hair slightly tousled, but she forced an overly casual smile.
“Main... I... I was just checking the fitting,” she stammered.
Ishmal blinked, about to respond, but then her gaze shifted past Eifa, and there he was. Shahnan. Standing a few steps behind, completely calm as if being in the girls’ trial section was the most normal thing in the world.
Ishmal’s brows lifted, and a slow, teasing smile spread across her face. “Oh…” she said, drawing the word out. “Kisi aur cheez ki fitting dekhi ja rahi thi shayad.”
(You were checking fitting for something else.)
Eifa’s soul practically left her body. She groaned, slapping a hand over her face.
Ishmal laughed, clearly enjoying this far too much. “Don’t worry, maine kuch nahi dekha.” she teased, backing away with a mischievous grin. “Aur tumhara itna surkh chehra toh kuch bhi zahir nahi kar raha.”
(Don’t worry, I didn’t see anything.)
(And your red face isn’t revealing anything either.)
“Ishmal, suno...” Eifa called after her, mortified.
(Ishmal, listen...)
But Ishmal was already walking away.
Eifa turned back, gritting her teeth,
Shahnan tilted his head, utterly unrepentant. “Apke surkh chehre pe white aur bhi pyara lag raha hai.”
(The red on your face makes the white look even prettier.)
Her glare snapped up to meet his amused eyes and though she wanted to yell at him again, her words faltered when she caught the quiet smirk on his lips. He looked far too pleased with himself.
“Out. Now,” she ordered, pointing to the door.
Still smiling, Shahnan stepped out of the trial room, his steps unhurried, his expression carrying that same infuriating calm. But just before leaving completely, he leaned a little toward her, his voice low enough that only she could hear.
“Isko untie karne mein bhi help chahiye hogi na?”
(You’ll need help untying that too, right?)
Eifa’s jaw dropped. “No, thank you.” she snapped, her tone sharp with both embarrassment and frustration. Her face was already crimson, and this dheet boy was still standing there as if he hadn’t just turned her entire day upside down.
But Shahnan wasn’t the least bit affected. His eyes held that same teasing glint, calm, playful, and annoyingly confident. Without responding to her outburst, he reached out, his hand brushing lightly against the thin tie of her dress.
Before Eifa could even protest, his fingers moved deftly, a quick tug, and the knot came undone.
She gasped softly, instinctively stepping back, her eyes wide in shock. Her heart jumped to her throat, and for a second.
But Shahnan simply raised his hands in innocence, a faint smirk curving his lips. “Bas help kar raha tha,” he said, his tone almost disarmingly soft.
(I was just helping.)
And just like that, he turned and walked away with no trace of guilt, no backward glance, leaving Eifa standing there frozen, breath caught somewhere between anger and disbelief.
As soon as he was gone, she slammed the door shut, the click echoing through the tiny room.
Then she pressed both hands to her burning face, muttering under her breath. “He is going to be the end of me.”
Her reflection in the mirror stared back, flushed cheeks, wide eyes, and that lingering warmth on her skin that refused to fade.
•••
“Yaha mujhe kuch bhi achha nahi laga...” Ishmal muttered, joining them again. “Let’s go somewhere else.”
(I didn’t like anything here...)
“Eifa ajaye.” Ehan said, pulling out his card, waiting to pay.
(Let Eifa come.)
“Eifa, ajayegi. Shahnan haina.” Ishmal replied, stepping ahead with Kian following behind.
(Eifa will come Shahnan is with her.)
“Ishmal bhabhi bohot time leti hain shopping mein. Ehan bhai, kuch khane chalte hain.” Eira groaned, her exhaustion written all over her face.
(Ishmal bhabhi takes forever while shopping. Ehan bhai, let’s grab something to eat.)
Ehan nodded and headed toward the billing counter. By the time he was done, Shahnan and Eifa had joined them again. No one noticed the faint color on Eifa’s cheeks or the smug contentment glinting in Shahnan’s eyes.
Outside, the wind was warm and slow. Ehan was calling Kian to tell him they were heading toward the café. He held Eira’s shopping bags.
Eifa adjusted the dupatta on her shoulder as she stepped out of the store, her heart still not quite steady. The memory of Shahnan’s lips brushing her skin in the trial room lingered in a way she didn’t want to admit.
Shahnan, of course, was entirely unbothered. Walking beside her with his usual self-satisfied look, carrying her shopping bags as if nothing had happened.
“Main Ehan ke sath...” Eifa finally said, reaching for her things.
(I'll go with Ehan...)
“Ji nahi,” Shahnan countered smoothly, blocking her with one arm as he opened the car door. “Ap mere sath chalengi.”
(Absolutely not,)
(You’re coming with me.)
“Shahnan, bas kardo.” she whispered sharply, glancing around nervously. “Kya tum mein bilkul sharm nahi?”
(Shahnan, stop it.)
(Do you have no shame at all?)
He tilted his head slightly, that boyish smile dancing on his lips. “Biwi se romance karne mein kaisi sharm?”
(What’s shameful about romancing my wife?)
“Romance karne ki jagah hoti hai, waqt hota hai.” she snapped.
(There’s a time and place for romance.)
“Konsi jagah hoti hai?” He leaned closer, lowering his voice to a husky whisper that sent heat rushing to her face. “Ghar pe nahi karne deti, room mein bhi nahi karne deti, yaha bhi mana kar rahi hain. Kya romance karne ke liye main apko chand pe le chalu, Mrs Shahnan?”
(What place exactly?)
(At home you don’t let me, in the room you don’t let me, and now here you’re saying no too. What do you want me to do, take you to the moon for romance, Mrs. Shahnan?)
Her lips parted in outrage, but no words came out. He just chuckled softly and enjoying the sight of her fiery blush.
A few feet behind, Layla was adjusting her abaya that kept fluttering in the wind. She was walking a little slower than the rest, her gaze on the pavement, when a voice cut through the air.
“Layla?”
Her blood turned to ice. The voice was like a nightmare she thought she had buried long ago. Slowly, she turned and her world tilted.
“Aaj agar kuch aur bhi mangta toh mil jata...” Zeeshan’s lips curved into a triumphant smile. “Itne din se tumhari ek jhalak ke liye taras gaya hoon.”
(If I’d asked for something else today, I’d have gotten that too…)
(I’ve been craving a glimpse of you for days.)
Layla’s figure was hidden beneath her abaya, but just once, when a gust of wind lifted the fabric slightly, Zeeshan’s gaze had caught on her. To confirm his suspicion, he’d called out to her and the way she froze in fear, the flicker of panic in those light brown eyes, was all the proof he needed. She was Layla Fareed.
“Kya hua? Aise kyu dekh rahi ho? Yakeen nahi araha? Tumhe toh main kahi se bhi dhoond sakta hoon.” His grin widened.
(What happened? Why are you staring like that? Can’t believe it? I can find you anywhere.)
Layla could barely breathe. Her body trembled as sweat dampened her palms. Her eyes darted around, searching desperately for the others, anyone who could help.
Zeeshan stepped closer, his expression darkening. “Kissey dhoond rahi ho? Kya kisike sath ho?” His voice lowered dangerously. “Ghar chalo.”
(Who are you looking for? You are with someone else?)
(Let’s go home.)
“Nahi,” Layla whispered, backing away.
(No,)
“Layla, bas ab mera sabr mat azmao.” His jaw clenched, his voice sharpening into a growl.
(Layla, don’t test my patience now.)
Before she could react, his hand shot out, grabbing her wrist in a rough grip that made her gasp. “Tum mere sath chal rahi ho.” he hissed.
(You’re coming with me.)
Layla screamed.
Ehan, who was still on a call with Kian, froze mid-sentence. Shahnan’s head snapped toward the sound instantly, his easy expression vanishing.
Ehan turned, his eyes locking on Layla’s terrified eyes and the man holding her. His fury flared in an instant.
“Kya ho raha hai?” Ehan’s voice was low, controlled, and dangerous.
(What the hell happening here?)
Layla turned at the sound of Ehan’s voice. He had stepped between them in an instant, his hand gripping Zeeshan’s collar before shoving him back, pulling Layla protectively behind him.
Layla had no idea when, in the midst of that sudden struggle, her abaya had come undone.
“Mangetar hai meri, tum kon ho beech mein aney wale?” Zeeshan snapped, refusing to back down.
(She’s my fiancée, who are you to come between us?)
Ehan froze for a second, his jaw tightening as he slightly turned his head toward Layla, disbelief flickering in his eyes at what he’d just heard.
Zeeshan stepped forward, but before he could reach Layla again, Shahnan grabbed him by his neck and shoved him back, hard. His voice was low but lethal. “Khabardar jo ek kadam bhi agey badhaya. Chup chap yaha se chale jao.”
(Don’t you dare take another step forward. Leave quietly.)
Eifa and Eira had frozen nearby, their faces pale. Eifa instinctively pulled Eira close, her protective instincts kicking in as people nearby began to stop and stare.
But Zeeshan only snarled, his voice rising. “Apni mangetar ko liye begair nahi jaunga.”
(I’m not leaving without my fiancée.)
He lunged again, only to be met with Ehan’s fist.
The sound of the punch echoed sharply in the air. Zeeshan crashed to the ground, clutching his face as blood spilled from his nose. The world seemed to still for a moment.
Then, shaking with rage, Zeeshan reached into his pocket and pulled out a gun.
Gasps rippled through the crowd.
“Koi mere aur Layla ke beech aya toh” Zeeshan growled, raising the pistol and pointing it straight at Shahnan. “Main issey shoot kar dunga.”
(If anyone comes between me and Layla…)
(I’ll shoot him.)
“Shahnan!” Eifa screamed, her voice trembling. Shahnan glanced back just for a second at her terrified face.
That split-second distraction was enough.
Ehan surged forward, grabbing Zeeshan’s wrist and twisting it sharply. The gun clattered to the floor. Before Zeeshan could recover, Ehan slammed his elbow into the man’s face, sending him sprawling backward.
“Shahnan, larkiyon ko leke jao.” Ehan barked, his voice like steel.
(Shahnan, take the girls away.)
Blood was smeared across Zeeshan’s cheek, his breath ragged, eyes wild. But Ehan didn’t waver. He picked up the gun, flipped it in his grip, and struck Zeeshan hard across the head with the butt.
Zeeshan crumpled to the ground, unconscious.
The crowd was silent, no one dared to move.
Ehan stood tall, chest heaving, jaw tight. Shahnan had already pulled the trembling Layla behind him, while Eifa clutched Eira, both shaken.
•••
Kuch zyada hi cringey aur dramatic ho gayi last scene, but sehlo thora 🙊 ig maine pehli baar fight scene likha hai? Yaad nahi araha🤔 tell me how it was.
Also, meri ek baat aap log yaad rakhna... Rahiman iss sansar mein bhati bhati ke log😌
Isliye har kisi ko attention dena, unki baaton pe react karna is not a sensible thing to do.
I mean, haan main pehle kafi immature thi, but now I know ki agar maine public platform pe apna work post kiya hai toh I should be ready for all kind of people. Abhi toh main sirf watty pe hoon, jaha 1k mein se woh bas 1 comment aisa hai.
Insha'Allah jab main apna work publish karungi aur famous hongi (everyone say ameen.) Tab toh aur pata nahi kin kin logo se samna hoga, online, offline everywhere. Isliye main jaldi react nahi karti.
You guys can say I'm gullible or stupid but that's how I'm. Isliye ap log bhi dhyan mat do✌🏻
-Ufaq
Btw, woh doha maine sahi likha hai? Aisa hi kuch tha na?