Chapter- 1
Five awful years had passed past that incidence that changed Asad Ahmed Khan upside down in the worst possible way; he was gulping drink after drink watching the site of the woman who destroyed him! Tanveer Baig his ex girlfriend and fiance who left him for the richer man Imraan Qureshi who was almost twice her age all the reason she could quote was that, "Please Asad, no girl wants a looser as her man, you couldn't crack the deal and the biggest fool you had been to stake your wealth and property behind that deal... you are deduced to Nobody Asad and I want to live a life of a queen which you can never ever give!" Her words scalded his heart boring hot holes to such an extent that it died; he was never reminded of that organ until today after that excoriating incidence. They say it's difficult to forget you first love, the hell it's true the more he wants to forget that bitch the more she makes it a habit to make an appearance before him be it a party, any ceremony or at times when she gets no such opportunity she makes it a point to go to the cafe where Asad hangs around daily for a coffee and kisses her husband making sure Asad is watching!
Call it for entertainment or to get rid of the guilt on her conscience, she did it purposefully every single time and as if it wasn't enough she tried piercing his heart just an hour back at the opening party of Siddhiqui's Chain of Hotels by saying, "you are a looser Khan, you can never get true love... Every woman in your life leaves you... See even your mother left you for your spineless father who was ill!" she had mocked reminding him of the bitterest memories. The bitch knew how to trigger his violent self out and was successful too much to her victory and his foreplay in front of guests. He tried to control himself as somewhere he knew Tanveer's intentions but he somehow couldn't really control his mind anymore... That bitch, she played her cards viciously! He did try to ignore her by playing truant and walkover the pieces of his past but she just wouldn't allow him to get past her! All he could do is to get out of there without caring of any adieus if he really doesn't want to make a mockery of himself by himself!
He stood and started walking towards the gates as he heard someone from behind "Sir why are you leaving?" The man ran in the speed Asad was walking
"I thought I am the Chief Guest here Mr.Siddhiqui, but I guess my value has been reduced below even that of an attendant!" Asad spat as he finally took a halt and turned around to watch intently at the source of voice near the hotel's exit cum entry door, in a tone loud enough to intimidate everyone present
"Sir you are our very important guest, what should we do to make you believe in it?" and there was a big mistake done by Siddhiqui the CEO of Siddhiqui Chain of Hotels, he shouldn't have asked it!
Asad gave out a crooked smile and looked at the direction of his ex-girlfriend Tanveer Baig who was stuck like glue on her husband's lap.
"Fine, if that's what you ask for then I am pretty interested in that seat of Mr. Quereshi!" Asad sighed pocketing his hands while Siddhiqui could do but stare blankly... either way it was his death!
"Sir... how??" Siddhiqui stammered not knowing what should be done, both his clients Mr. Imraan Qureshi and Asad Ahmed Khan were important, Imraan gave Siddhiqui one of the biggest deal of his life whereas Asad was his godfather the one who held his hand throughout thick and thin also it was Asad's elder brother Anwar whom he was going to marry off his elder daughter Zeenat!
"Fine then, I have few works to sort out myself!" Asad turned to leave
"Please Sir don't leave!" Siddhiqui almost pleaded, for a moment Asad was tempted to let go in front of the elderly man before him but his giant ego didn't allow it!
"Abbu, anything wrong?" Came a beautiful melodious voice which gradually approached them, Asad couldn't help but let his gaze linger on her beautiful and perfectly sculpted body frame... She seemed like an apsara descended down from heaven in that peach colored Anarkali that was covering her sinful assets. He had seen her few years back; it was he himself who had funded her degree at German University as she was the younger daughter of his most trusted employee. All he could conclude from his hawk-eye observations was she has grown into a perfect woman... A beautiful woman!
"Go inside Zoya!" Gaffur said in an authoritative voice that make Zoya's nose scrunch, her father never ever talked to her like that; she was sure something was widely amiss so she just choose to go back to her friends but not before looking at Asad who was still checking her out.
"Mr. Sidhiqui..."
"Please Sir-" Siddhiqui was almost teary, Asad didn't knew why but he found himself much calmer than before after Zoya made her entry even post her exit, his mind seemed calmed.
He entered the hall again smiling talking on some random topics with everyone, much to Tanveer's annoyance who had wanted to enjoy the show she managed to put on. She huffed dramatically shooting daggers at Asad and turned only to bump into Zoya accidentally spoiling her own dress with her own drink!
"I'm sorry!" Zoya said despite knowing that she wasn't at fault. Little did she know she was talking to a female version of an asshole!
"You dumb freak, can't you watch where you are walking? Do you even know the prize of the dress that got spoiled?" A man barked at Zoya making her the center of attraction of the hall.
"No, I don't, but probably I can tally the prize of detergent that this dress may save!" she mock bullied back... Gaffur tried to jump in but Asad held his hand back... He had observed something in Zoya and now he was willing to testify it!
"You f*king bitch how dare you talk to my husband with that mouth of yours?"
"You b*tch!!"
"You are a gap toothed bitch yourself stop annoying me!" Zoya spat making Tanveer close her mouth instantly; Asad couldn't help but stifle a giggle... This girl was sure something! Tanveer glanced at Asad who was mocking her with her expressions, not only him but everyone present there were probably trying hard not to burst out laughing at Zoya's comment.
"Just go and f**k off somewhere!?"
"I swear you are the most fu*ked up people I ever saw! Why are you even so obsessed with that word?" Zoya went towards the drink corner to cool herself while Tanveer chose to exit with Imran wagging around her like a tail. Gaffur was angry himself at the way they behaved with Asad first and then with his daughter, the only common courtesy that had stopped him for asking them to leave chair for Asad refused to resurface as he saw his daughter being bullied by them with due respect from his every and each body cell he was glad that Asad stopped him!
Having enough for the day Asad started to leave "Please Sir, don't do this to us... I cannot bear that you too exited my party feeling insulted" Gaffur started feeling guilty over whatever happened though he knew he wasn't someone to be blamed he couldn't help it! Little did he know hadn't it been the party he would have probably saturated himself by drinking at some random bar! On an instinct his eyes traveled towards Zoya who was drinking mineral water.
"Sir-" Gaffur bought Asad out of the trance while Asad still couldn't understand what was happening to him!
"Okay so what can you give me?" Asad decided to play along without clearing his confusion
"Anything you ask sir!"
"Your daughter...?" Asad raised his eyebrow making Siddhiqui gasp at his demand.
"Sir?"
"Marry off your daughter Zoya to me, the same day my brother Anwar is marrying your elder daughter Zeenat!"
"But y-you don't know her-" Gaffur started fetching up for excuses; this was just too fast...
"You have some problem?"
"No, Sir!" Gaffur knew this the best alliance his daughter would ever get.
"Think about it Siddhiqui, I would love to hear a yes for an answer!" Asad couldn't help but induce an authority tone in his voice that made Gaffur gawk for a while!
-----------------
Chapter 2
"umm Zoya... Assalam walekum.." Gaffur greeted his daughter at the breakfast table
"Walekum salam abbu!" Zoya greeted back not knowing whether she hallucinated the nervousness in her abbu or was he really nervous? Why would her abbu be nervous around her?
"Zoya had your breakfast?" Gaffur was trying hard to trigger the conversation but somehow couldn't get right words out of his vocabulary,
"Allah miya... What's wrong with you abbu? I am yet to have breakfast and you know it!" she said sensing definitely something is wrong
"haha yeah!" Gaffur tried fake-laughter to escape his daughter's questioning glare only to gulp later when he noticed the demanding allure in her eyes
"Spell it!" she said and Gaffur knew he has to let it out in a single sentence
"What do you think about marriage Zoya?" he asked
"Umm it's a good institute, and it's always nice to have someone for you-" Zoya was obediently answering like a primary child does at extempore contest until an alarm rang in her mind making her stop abruptly and look back into her father's eyes trying to confirm her doubt.
"There is an alliance for you!" Gaffur finally dropped the bomb; soon his thumb began massaging the tips of his forefingers that were soon gonna be the shield for his ears!
"Abbu, my marriage?!" Zoya's grew wide while her eyes refused to shut fearing that maybe she wastes time in blinking and open her eyes to find her father with a bridal outfit for her! Wasn't it too sudden?
"Listen Zoya, he is an extremely nice man, handsome, tall, successful anything and everything that a woman would desire for a husband!" Zainab, her mother intervened
"That's your terms and conditions ammi, not mine!" she rolled her eyes while her mother took a deep breath trying not to lose calm in front of her own flesh
"Pray, list them!" Zainab folded arms in front of chest pushing her plate a bit forward so that her complete attention would be on Zoya. Gaffur who didn't intend his life to end yet tried his last to take the whip in his hand.
"Zainab let me-"
"Please! You are the one who spoilt her!" Zainab replied stopping Gaffur
"Is he fair?" Zoya questioned not really interested in hearing her parents' batter
"Milky complexion with clear skin"
"Has dimples?"
"On both cheeks, deeper than you!"
"Can sing?"
"Can even play guitar and is an international award winner too!" Zainab said making Zoya put all her defenses down even before she could use them!
"When will I have to meet umm-" Zoya said and trailed off with a umm as she realized she didn't know that handsome, dimpled and international award winner's name!
"Asad, Asad Ahmed Khan!" Zainab said
"Anwar zeeju's-"
"Yes his brother, you must have seen him in the party yesterday!", Zoya recalled the deadly handsome guy from the party yes Mr. Khan... not a bad deal! She thought.
"When I am supposed to meet him!"
"Wait I'll ask him and then inform you.." gaffur said
"Fine!"
Zoya was an observant girl... she knew Asad, he was definitely handsome, the day before only she had seen girls swooning over him. Though he doesn't seem to be a ladies' man he is a charmer. Even before going to Germany she never had spoke to him as she felt too shy 19 year old when the 25 year old most young and successful businessman had visited them to deliver the cheque of her scholarship funded personally by him, he had never ever visited her house after she returned from abroad she had seen him maybe once or twice at some ceremonies and functions of her sister's wedding but she could merely recall him to be an active participant... she knew he is the one who funded her degree at the university and was extremely grateful for that, be anything the future holds for them she can definitely meet him to say a Thankyou!
*
Zoya slipped on her bed, like every other girl she too was the director of her of her own fairytale wedding and like every director wanted it to be perfect! She had agreed on meeting her suitor and some homework was definitely essential as even though she had a fair idea of his persona she yet had to know much more about him.
She took her ipad and typed the keyword Asad... the google was clever enough to guess it for her and do the rest remaining needful! One enter press and the webpage was loaded with articles and pictures out of which almost half of them were of his achievements and awards very few about his personal life but the one article that caught her attention was..
Asad Ahmed Khan spends quality time with his rumoured girlfriend!
Like every other girl ignoring all the articles she chose to read it dismissing the tinge of jealousy under the name of homework to be done before meeting him, one article paved a way to the other... May god forbid but Zoya hadn't stood awake even before her entrance exam for the German University, someone has said right, marriage does terrible things to people
-ARTICLE 1-
Asad Ahmed Khan Spends Quality Time with rumored girlfriend Tanveer Baig...
Recently we broke the news of the youngest business man of the country having been developing in his umm heart issues also the news of Tanveer Baig spending quality time with her man has been doing rounds. Though the duo hasn't spoken about their relationship in open the gossip mills have got churning after the 21 year model has returned to India after her California project.
Some sources claim that the two met privately and spent some quality time with each other, the source also states that the duo got secretly engaged few months back and are all set to tie the holy knot. So if everything is set in a fixed timetable we really wonder why there is no official confirmation...
We will surely figure out the hot mess till then stay tuned to BBM network!
What was burning after reading this article?
ARTICLE 2
Bad phase embraces the Business Lion!
While reaching on a high mountain there is always a fear regarding missing a step and tumbling back to the bottom, same looks the case for the business man AAK... One small mistake and bam...!Reports suggest that the man who was donating alms wholeheartedly until last week himself is in dire need of a single penny! Yes what you hear is right AAK has gone bankrupt after a major loss in the business though they refuse to divulge the intricate bits of information the thing we have dug up is that Khan's desperate behavior and over confidence is the root to all these things! If another chirping birdie is supposed to be believed then another rumor says that Dilshad Khan his mother has decided to reconcile with his father after 13 years of separation and AAK is completely taken back by the turn of events in his life.
Upon a bit more investigation from his manager who also is his school buddy all we got to know his opinion, "Ups and downs are the part of every single aspect of life! We are sure we will work on it rest no comments!"
We tried contacting the CEO of Khan construction who is AAK himself but he remained unavailable for comment. Stay tuned while we try to dig a little more information in bits!
After reading this article all Zoya wanted to do is go and hug Asad
ARTICLE 3
Miss Baig makes an appearance without wedding ring, asks AAK? Who is he?
It was last week when we broke the news of AAK's business loss, not even few days and we hear another gossip of the month. Tanveer Baig former Miss India contestant and one with most bright future in modeling made a recent appearance at SM awards in a classy yet revealing sexy golden dress but the thing caught our attention is the lady's ring finger that adorned a beautiful diamond ring until very recent.
On being questioned about the same by our reporter the model tried remaining deaf eared at the begging but later confirmed the worst doubts, "Like every other things that aren't important it had to be taken down too!" her little statement had shocked every and each person listening, later when the beautiful hottie was confronted about her relation with AAK she replied, "AAK, who is he?" Well interesting and as usual Asad Ahmed Khan remained unavailable! Stay tuned for more.
Now all Zoya wanted to do is kill Tanveer bare handed!
ARTICLE 4
The Lion is Back!!!!
The one who said history repeats itself must be given a certificate of truth!! Remember few years back a young guy just a university graduate had created a hurricane by his entry in the world of business? Yeah you are right, we are talking about the fierce lion of business world AAK aka Asad Ahmed Khan who has even in less than a year managed to grab his position back... On the same occasion we have managed to sneak a talk with the media-shy lion and are really glad that he opened up over a video chat!
Sir how does it feel to return back?
I don't really understand how to answer how you feel type of question, isn't it too obvious how I am feeling?!
Okay fine! Tell us how could you manage so much in so less time?
I don't think like you rather I would say one year had been really long we were ready to be in the field after three months itself, it was a long wait!
Don't you think the wait was worth it?
Indeed! *smirks* Be any the thing lemme grab this opportunity to thank each and every person who supported me during thick and thin esp. my staff who worked three months day and night without receiving salary.
Did we just see the lion with tears?
No! *wipes eyes* it's just that I am too grateful!
There were lot rumors about your life esp. regarding your fiance.
Correction, ex fiance... Everyone has past and people need a subject to talk about so people have no other subject had this! They say empty mind is devil's workshop so I am secretly glad I saved the world from demons taking birth! *trails of with laughter*
Sir why did your girlfriend refused to even acknowledge you?
How can I know why she did it? You rather ask her about it!
What are your future plans?
Yeah finally business talk! Yes we have few things in mind but atm only the huge responsibility that has been loaded onto my shoulder remains my priority!
Why are you hesitant to make camera appearances?
I am not hesitant just I don't feel it's needed!
Any messages?
Failures are temporary it's isn't a crime to fail but if you don't get up and try again it's a crime! *signs off*
Zoya felt her chest swell with unknown feeling... pride maybe! She was just fumbling over the whip of emotions that were recurring in her mind, she didn't even understand until her mother came up to call her for the dinner that it was night, she already had adamantly skipped lunch as she was busy with her homework!
"What were you so much engrossed in Zoya?" her mother asked
"Umm nothing important!"
"oh I so wish it was important!" Zainab taunted
"Abbu?"
"He skipped the dinner, he has got some GIT irritation!"
"When am I going to meet him ammi?" Zoya asked not knowing why she was behaving as a wife on heels already
"I don't know AAK didn't contact us!" Zainab said while Zoya's stomach cumulated thinking about worst probabilities, did he drop the thought? Didn't he like her?
"Tomorrow night, there is a business party by Ansari's he is willing to meet her there!"Gaffur made an appearance after she was done with the dinner to break the news.
Was this a scenario where a possible would be couple meet? A business meeting? Unknowingly a smile crept her face while her mind coined a name for him, "Akhdu Ahmed Khan!" unknowing to her, her lips had already curved up making two hollow dimples make their appearance on her cheeks! All night after it Zoya found herself engrossed in her ipad either reading his interviews or watching his pictures! A thing that was sure to happen was that by morning Zoya would be ready enough to write a hundred pages thesis!
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Chapter 3
The party looked no decent to Zoya's eyes, it was loud and magnificent something really quite opposite to whatever she was wearing, he had sent her the dress and matching platinum accessories with studded diamonds and insisted or let's say ordered her father that his to-be bride comes wearing all that! To be... seriously? She wondered, not that she had any qualms in wearing what he had bought for her but it nowhere matched the theme of the party where the girls and women were barely even had put on enough to cover their required to cover parts! She never loved exposing... but hell she shouldn't be dressed in an Indian wear making her the odd man out, a black gown or a knee length cocktail dress could have made it without unnecessary exposing like the brunets and bimbo's around but here she was wearing a designer Indian wear, it was a simple yet elegant, mild yet voluptuous long red blended in peach colored dress. She was covered from head to toe except for her back as her fluffy hair was tied up in a bun putting her milky smooth skin at display.
Clearly overdressed Zoya was feeling embarrassed not even once she could halt up to any conclusion that why the hell did he made her wear it?! She looked around and finally caught his eyes which were hooked on only her, she narrowed her brows showing her displeasure in his choice of her dress not even knowing if he would understand her signs but all she got in return was a wink and a sexy smirk! What the-? Did he just? She was still getting over her embarrassment when her father came behind her suddenly baffled with her red cheeks,
"Zoya behave in front of him, I had convinced him to meet you once because only just you wished for it!" Zoya stared at her father with her eyes popping out what did he mean by the thing that he had to convinced Asad Ahmed Khan? Didn't he wish to meet her before marriage?
"Abbu what do you mean by just I wished?" she asked away her queries and observed her father shift uncomfortable he certainly didn't want his daughter to know the way Asad had proposed marriage to her.
Gaffur certainly was a bad liar, he couldn't instantly fabricate any excuse for his cover but to his luck he was approached by dazzling beauty that made Zoya forget their discussion for a while, it was Tanveer Baig! The lady was truly eternally breathtaking in case of her looks, but what caught her attention was her Indian Dressing style amidst the loud party! She was draped in a chiffon sari and a low cut blouse putting her cleavage on display, In the party of black there were only these two who were dressed in colours which didn't help Zoya from comparing her to the lady in front of her down-rating her own self as she had atleast dressed with a modern tinge but here Zoya completely resembled a behenjee!
"Hello Mr. Siddhiqui!" Tanveer initiating the conversation couldn't help but take Gaffur by surprise, never in the seven heavens he would have imagined that this someone who was nothing but a big fat ego on two legs could have talked to him casually after whatever happened at his Hotel launch. Little did he know that the naughty exchange between Asad and Zoya hadn't gone unnoticed by this woman who was shamelessly ogling at the handsome AAK from the minute he stepped into the venue!
"Hello Mrs. Qureshi!" The etiquettes of a gentleman didn't allow Gaffur to disrespect a woman despite the amount he despised her
"So this spoilt brat is with you too!" she mocked Zoya, jealousy equally evident in her voice which took her by surprise, she was about to retaliate and give Tanveer a good piece of wisdom but her father caught her by her hand to stop her as the last thing he wanted was to spoil the evening for Asad and Zoya!
"Mrs. Quereshi I am here to meet someone for some really important personal matter, privacy is respected!" Zoya said trying not to grit her teeth and remain utmost polite!
Tanveer ran her eyes from Zoya's head to toe she was dressed in a complete Indian wear with platinum accessories it didn't take time for her to recognize that whose choice of clothes it was! She blinked her eyes trying to make herself agree that she was over-reacting... As Asad can never move on and she knew that!
"Ma'am this is for you!" A waiter approached her with a drink
"I am sorry, I don't drink!" she said and heard Tanveer whisper "Down-market!" with a chuckle. Annoyed she looked at her father who almost pleaded her not to lose her temper and rolled her eyes.
"No worries ma'am it's a fruit cocktail with alcohol content in zilch!" the waiter smiled and finally Zoya smiled and took the glass only to find a note pasted at the bottom.
I don't like you talking to her!
The chit simply read one sentence she looked around and found Asad talking to some other business associates animatedly, she knew it was his chit but he looked so engrossed with another man that she wondered when did he get time to keep an eye on her? In all her thinking process she failed to notice that Tanveer too had read the chit and was probably intelligent enough to connect the dots from her choice of clothes to the message, there is nobody in this world who hates her more than him!
Ignoring Tanveer Zoya approached the drink counter for something after her father too got busy with his colleagues.
"So finally we meet, for what?" she was taken by surprise when his breath fanned her ears
"A business meeting!" she said sarcastically, she definitely never wanted to meet her suitor in a business meeting!
"Well a businesses is an arrangement and an arrangement can even be a definition for a marriage to me so you aren't technically wrong!" he said with a lopsided grin, Zoya for sure didn't knew what to speak on his sentence so she chuckled or rather say fake-chuckled but soon witnessed the change in his expressions that had turned into something rigid, she couldn't help but gape at the intensity his eyes held!
"What were you doing with that b*tch Zoya?" he asked his voice dipped in that of some extreme emotion that had no definition made
"S-She still affects you so much?" Zoya shuddered not really knowing what she was speaking
"She does not!" he stated while Zoya didn't knew what to answer as he sounded much more like convincing himself that her, "I just don't want you near her ever!" he ordered with the certain command induced in his voice equal to that of a monarch!
Zoya understood what he meant; she nodded and blinked in assurance while took a deep breath he didn't want to scare her off! He enveloped her into a hug from behind taking her by surprise she was so lost in his teasing touch that she didn't even realize when he had taken he to the dance floor still nuzzling her neck.
"You look absolutely stunning!" he said, "Except for one thing!"
"What?" she asked while he made her turn around again and removed the clip that tied her hair up making them fall freely on her back covering it!
"I love it like this!" he whispered seductively
"Abbu..." she whispered trying to free herself it would be embarrassing to dance like this in front of her father and moreover she needed to move away from Asad, NOW!
"He has given you to me to take care Zoya!" Asad said and Zoya could clearly see the hidden meaning behind his statement
"Mr. Khan I thought you would have taken me into some more private place to discuss!" she finally said she still couldn't digest they were meeting in a business party so that they could get to know each other for marriage!
"Private place... for what?" his eyes scrunched in confusion
"For discussing marriage!" she said
"What is there to discuss? The venue, date, time and dress have been already decided!" he asked
"Everything is set in a timetable?" she asked
"Yes we are getting married on the same day as Zeenat and Anwar after a fortnight and you are wearing a dress of my choice!" he said kissing the nape of her neck making her gasp.
He wanted to marry her without even knowing about her? No courting, no dates but directly marriage, is it? But why? She really had liked him and she felt as if she knew him from the articles and interviews she had read but what about him, what did he know about her?
*
Coming everyday Asad made it a routine to take out some time for Zoya, he would attend parties, ceremonies making it much clear to the media about the romance brewing between them though he never made any statement but the constant instances of awkward PDAs always kept the gossiping tongues wagging but he didn't cared, for him Zoya was his only his and he had all the rights on her and expressing them isn't crime, is it? Three days had passed, if love was too soon to happen then maybe it wasn't love but fascination wrapped with protectiveness and possessiveness!
*
It was another such party few days before their wedding where Asad had taken Zoya along to break the ice to the media finally! He had just decided on a direct marriage without any foreplay of ceremonies so it was definitely breaking news and Business Lion's marriage to the dimpled beauty was the talk of the town! Breaking through the paparazzi Zoya had finally been able to free her own self but just then her path was crossed by that cat!
"Zoya mind if I give you a free advice?" she began forming a prologue
"Spit it and move!" Zoya spat
"Leave Asad!" she said and Zoya stared her fuming, "See Zoya don't get me wrong Asad cannot be right for any woman! He is a loner... A looser in relationship that cannot get over his past! He can never love Zoya he just loves dominating!" Tanveer said disgustingly
"Asad has a loving capacity that boggles mind Tanveer, and what you call as dominance is his care and possessiveness!"
"Are you really fishing for synonyms of dominance here?! It is obsession Zoya!" Tanveer said calmly and continued, "I know I have wronged him by leaving him, but that was my choice such long years yet he isn't got done from it! I still disturb him Zoya! Do you think it won't affect you that your husband is affected by another woman?!" Zoya couldn't help but stare blankly at Tanveer what she said was the truth. Asad wasn't over his past but that doesn't mean he will overlook her!
"It is your life Zoya, but still... anyways all the best!" Tanveer said and moved forward to hug her, Zoya knew she shouldn't be hugging Tanveer but she wanted comfort and that's what she got from the embrace maybe her heart and mind had fabricated it and the other woman's intensions weren't wrong but she didn't retaliate!
"Be any the thing, I still hate you!" Zoya declared and Tanveer chuckle what else could she have expected from the Lioness?!
*
"What were you doing with her?"
"Just a talk!"
"What talk? Was she tutoring you on 100 ways to ditch me?!" Zoya shivered at the coldness of his voice
"you are over-reacting!"
"Overreacting? Seriously you hugged that w*tch!" he roared thinking that she had definitely casted a spell on his Zoya that she is fighting with him for her!
"Mr. Khan don't let her affect you so much!" Zoya whispered while Asad closed his eyes trying to calm himself so that he can make her see some sense-
"Mr. Khan...!" before Asad could threaten her further they were interrupted by Asad's client and Zoya was glad that he didn't give the client a shrug off, she tried moving away but felt Asad's hands seep through her waist holding her close, she tried freeing herself feeling awkward but he didn't let her!
Zoya turned to face him and found him talking to his client while his thumb did its work on her waist, for distraction she glanced sideways only to fume over Tanveer as she was checking out herAsad! Unknown protectiveness and possessiveness hovered upon her senses as her eyes searched for the source of the gap toothed b*tch's merriment and anger fumed inside her to find her ogling at her man's dimples!
EYES.
OFF.
HIM.
YOU.
B*TCH!!!
Her mind screamed all she wanted to do is pierce burning iron rods into her two sockets and make them hollow! Zoya wasn't a kid she knew Tanveer was married to middle aged man who had nothing but only money and alas! Money wasn't enough to fulfill her every desire. Anger rose like no other thing when she saw the b*tch admiring her man, she all of the sudden wanted to tame her down show her that he is hers only hers! Without thinking twice she tiptoed and kissed the hollow in his cheek taking him, his client and Tanveer in surprise! His client left away blushing himself; while she looked down all ready to bear a lecture on the lack of manners when he is talking to his client! Tanveer too looked expectantly as she knew Asad's temper will rise but not at all to her pleasant surprise Asad smiled pulling her close and kissed her nose making Tanveer's jaw drop on the floor! The asad she knew wasn't a man of PDA at all!
_________
Wedding in two weeks, well correction in just one day now! No rituals, no ceremonies just four signatures and tada the job is done! In all these days Zoya spent with him she got to know that Asad was a man of principles, not any saint and cruel in his own passionate way... living with him won't be easy after all he is a thick soul-ed man, highly successful and viciously strict. Zoya had developed a liking for him that was coated with possessiveness and care, she respected him for whatever he has emerged as and was willing to share his life absorbing his flaws and polishing all his virtues!
She was dissolved in his thoughts while a romantic melody played and the couples in love were immersed into each other, swaying on the music sonorously mingling their hearts into a dimly lit romantic evening! It was an opening of a couple's hub near the vicinity and Asad being the architect of the phenomenal complex was invited along with his to be wife.
"Still angry on me baby!" a husky voice broke her jingling thoughts while she just moaned erratically showing her displeasure. Why wouldn't she be angry? It was her sister's wedding with no other man on this planet but his brother and here instead of visiting family ceremonies they were pretentiously being centre of attraction of an opening party thrown by some f*cking business client! "Don't you think we should spend some time alone sweetheart?"
"Being maligned away from families?" she shot him a glare
"Don't be so extremely difficult Zoya you have spent so much time with them so now what's the mess in knowing my lifestyle that you would be sharing in a week?!" he stated his side of the argument while Zoya scowled, she would never understand the complexities this man has! One moment he would be such dire reverberating and hopelessly submersing that would surpass whatever the biggest cheesy romance writer wrote and the other moment he turns all mute and deaf to his family demanding the me time!
"It's your brother's wedding!"
"Which will happen regardless my presence or absence Zoya!" he said with a dismissive flick of his eyes
"Okay fine it doesn't affect you albeit the fact that he wished his brother attended his wedding!" I said my voice full of remorse
"Now you don't want to fight me for him!" he said
"No not really for him, but just in case you don't know it's my sister's wedding too!" Zoya bit out with a sarcastic tone
"She wished you luck for the evening with me!" he smiled his famous crooked smile
"You are being impossible Khan!"
"Wasn't it you who wanted to know me well before marriage?"
"Not like this with us limping out together whenever we are free forgetting friends and family!"
"Don't talk about anything else when we are together! I want all your attention Zoya!" the finality in his voice touched her deeply and she shivered as he continued, "you are with me so let the home remain at home sweetheart, enjoy the spotlight by my side only! I don't have anyone in my family Zoya and the people there are not my family! Actually just that because it is against my religion to break the relations I try to maintain a cordial bond superficially atleast and thus there is not really any need to built up anything personal with them!" he said, so that she understands that he wants her for himself he hates sharing then be it with anyone. "Be with me Zoya, understand me and know me!" he finished
"There is not really any need to walk through various ceremonies hand in hand showcasing your trophy girl for that!" Zoya bit out annoyingly while he stood still not knowing why the irrelevant statement all of a sudden until he saw Esha Maliha who had recently broke the article about Asad Ahmed Khan and his overly Clingy trophy Girlfriend! He chuckled as he recalled the way she had got him blown by her short heated escapade with Tanveer and wondered what will she do to Esha, he actually had a personal thing with Esha as she mostly writes and spreads negativity about him and her being extremely close to Tanveer didn't help the matter either!
"It can be a battle field if you want!" he said
"Are you sure?"
"Ball is in your court!" he sipped as she smiled wickedly and she headed towards Esha.
*
"Hello Miss Maliha!" she said
"Oh uh Hie!" Esha had ofcourse least expected a gesture from her
"You write interesting fiction in your column!" Zoya said
"Fiction?"
"Yeah actually it is a wonderful thing where you can even write about a silly woman with two horns and a pussy cat tail and portray her to be a famous columnist!"
"I write the truth Miss Siddhiqui!" Esha said gritting her teeth
"And I solemnly swear if you continue with it I will be no good!" Zoya stated and turned to leave, Esha couldn't help but sweat on her malicious tone she could smell the accent of AAK in it and hell it has been just few days of him together with Zoya.
"Are you sure that its fiction, whatever I wrote?" Zoya turned, "I mean is writing down a thesis and driving conclusions from a case study equal to fiction for you Zoya?"
"Pray elaborate!"
"With pleasure!" Esha adjusted her specs on her nose and continued, "Asad Ahmed Khan, I guess you know about his past and family matters like his ammi and ex fiance so I just skip it! Anyways like a neutral observer isn't it possible for me to drive out that Asad is using you to make Tanu jealous or show his family how least their rejection is affecting him? It's just a month that you have returned back completing your degree Zoya... and a certain night you have a clash with Tanu and from the next day he becomes extra caring, extra sweet and extra loving towards you and even ready to marry you... can't I view it as a process to get a weapon in your arsenal training and using it against the ones who rejected you?" Esha was drunk, her writer's brain couldn't really collect correct adjectives to shoot at Zoya but whatever little she managed had stung Zoya like a knife thinking about the base of their relationship that she could never assume.
"Esha you need not-"
"There is no love in this relation Zoya, Don't tell me you guys are irrevocably in love with each other in just a week..."
"It takes just four seconds to fall in love, Esha and its psychologically proven!" Zoya said not really able to gather words for defense, Esha chuckled and left.
Zoya needed a breeze of cool air but she couldn't head out as Asad will definitely follow her there and she didn't wish any confrontation with him! So where now? Washroom... ladies washroom, the only place where he cannot come!
*
Asad watched as she walked towards the washroom, her eyes down casted and a ugly smile on Esha's face with an unknown intensity he approached her
"Lets have a dance, Miss Maliha!" he didn't even wait for her answer and dragged Esha to the floor.
*
Zoya walked out of the washroom yet traumatized with whatever venom Nisha spew on her only to add to her disgust to see Asad and Esha dance close on a romantic beat and she lost it, all she wanted is to pluck the dirty b*ch with her bare hands and throw her in some rotten garbage tank!
"May I have the pleasure to dance with this beautiful lady!" came a faintly dizzy voice, Zoya was tempted to refuse for a while but that lasted only for a while as the next moment the act of taking revenge tempted her more and the next moment she was limbering around that guy on the dance floor. Making it less obvious she glanced over Asad's direction only to see his fixated glance over her, she wished he could leave that b*tch and come to her but it never happened he seemed to have been engrossed in some deep conversation with his eyes fixated on her instead of his dance-partner!
Zoya growled as this lad dancing with her grabbed and twirled her by the waist, she could smell some third class liquor and the urge to get away from the bas***d was at its peak... but it would look rude! She has to complete the dance, she mentally kicked herself when she glanced back at Asad who looked like he would expire any moment, his gaze darkened, she swore she could see abyss, with his look quite sinister Asad made his way towards Zoya and she gulped down at the intimidating situation!
Unknown to all this scene unfolding the man dancing with Zoya spun her on the axis of her index finger and the next thing she knew was that Asad had held her index finger and continued spinning her, she smiled knowingly and mouthed a sorry to the man who raised his hand giving up and left!
"You shouldn't have done that!" Asad murmurs dancing along the beat
"I am sorry!" she says dazed too late to realize what she spoke as the words flew out before she could speak,
"You should be!" he stated, Zoya frowned wasn't it a tit for tat?!
"Oh really? And you can dance with anyone you want?" she said jealousy evident in her voice
"I wasn't dancing Zoya I was interrogating her, you think I didn't noticed that you were upset?" he said softly while Zoya blinked her eyes not knowing what to answer, the emotion in his eyes turned her jelly... overwhelmed she pushed him slightly citing an excuse to water her parched throat.
Once at the counter Zoya ferociously gulped down the entire glass of lemonade trying to find her equilibrium and when she did she noticed Esha who has probably emptied a whole bottle of rum demanding for even more, she took steady steps and observed her disheveled state, the woman looked as she had fought a war.
"Esha..."
"Stay away Zoya!" she said indicating her to stop her tracks with the help of her hands, its only then Zoya noticed black-blue marks on her upper arms
"Baby, had your water?" Asad pulled her back before she could carry on with Esha
"What happened to her?" she asked once they reached the dance floor again not believing her instinct about Asad doing that to her, she had seen Asad scowl splattering his anger via his eyes when she was dancing with a stranger but did it affect him to that extent that he took it all on Esha? Or was it some form of revenge as Esha had made her upset?!
"Zoya-" he took a deep breath "Listen to me Zoya, you aren't a damn trophy to me you value much more..." Asad vaguely waved his hands and raked it through his hair before continuing, "But I am damn selfish, I want you all to myself since the moment I saw you Zoya... You are exquisite, honest, warm, strong, witty, beguilingly innocent and the list is endless. I am in awe of you. I want you, and the thought of anyone hurting you is like a knife twisting through my cursed soul" Zoya stared at him blankly his confession had already hypnotized her conscience, her subconscious nodded accepting him completely and that was the moment she knew she wanted this man!
"Don't call yourself cursed Asad, you are everything but that!" Momentary relief washed over him as she didn't push him away like his abbu or ammi!
He smiled, "But I guess one rumor was correct!"
"Which one?"
"The one that you may be a bad kisser!" he teased jollily and was taken into surprise when she quietly placed her upper lip in between the slit of his mouth and locked them with his, he stood still as she sucked on her lower lip neither he responded nor he retaliated but stood still and let her have her own way.
"Still you believe that rumor?" she smirked
"Umm you know what lemme teach you how it is done correctly..." saying he smacked his lips on hers and in that moment Zoya saw stars... she willingly invited him to her delicious abode as he continued to suck every ounce of pleasure. Desires exploded like a volcano within her as she kissed him back , her fingers knotted in his hair pulling them ferociously...he groaned at the back of his throat that reverberated within her driving her up the wall. He drank from the kiss like a thirsty man from an oasis... the world around was long back forgotten. Taking their own sweet time they returned back to the mortal world.
"This is how it is supposed to be! Keep practicing I love things perfect!" he smirked turning her into puddle of goo, "Let's go we have a wedding to prepare!" he escorted her out of the venue with his hands encircled her waist possessively!
-----------------
~~
Business Lion Ties knot!
Just last week we had bought upon the news that will make girls heart weak, well lets spare the rhyme for some other time and get to the mantle of the matter. In simpler words let us tell you the inner details of the marriages taking place of the leading business family of Khans. It was a private intimate affair where the family tried their maximum to keep media at bay for some rituals, where the elder brother of Mr. Asad Ahmed Khan was dazzling the event in the maroon sherwani whereas we saw Asad Ahmed Khan himself wearing his signature black tuxedo.
Well yes like you we found it fishy too, later on questioning the duo if they were supposed to get married on the same day, AAK chuckled and replied, "Yes we were supposed to get married today and I am happy to announce we are already married some time back!" The statement came as a shock to most of the media reporters as they couldn't even gather a glimpse of the most talked about wedding in business circle!
We tried talking to the lady who stole the lion's heart but she seemed to be too much into the coy bride's shoes to answer us! Look in for this space for more information!
*****'
Zoya huffed in exasperation, yes the Zoya Siddhiqui was annoyed well correction, it's supposed to be Zoya Asad Ahmed Khan now! Yes holy mother of f*ck she is married... doesn't seem so?! She was in the same anarkali she had dawned upon for her sister's wedding which she was happily a part of until a pair of hands caught her and before anything could be done dragged her into the nearby room.
"Sign it!" he demanded as they were finally in front of some advocate her father was standing quietly with two other people and there were few people on Asad's side too
"What's it?"
"Marriage certificate!" he had declared
She groaned as she recalled her so called marriage... is this really even considered to be a marriage? The hell she didn't even get time to wear her dream bridal dress she had got designed from her international friend literally making him stay awake designing for her whole three nights! Then to add to her annoyance he whisked her away to his mansion not even giving her time to meet her sister saying they had an press conference scheduled to declare their marriage... She took a deep breath she still has to discover much more facts on how life goes for him!
It was around the same time that Asad came out after freshening up in only towel putting his wet body on display only to find Zoya staring onto the computer screen with knitted eyebrows wondering what was on it he advanced towards her that ultimately made her aware of him.
She stared blankly gulping down the liters of saliva her salivary glands produced in fraction of seconds. Focus Zoya! She reminded herself but her body begged to betray her mind. She couldn't help but stare at the most tasty delicacy in front of her eyes his chest clean shaved and looked so smooth; her tongue ached to lick the indents of his abs. She couldn't help but imagine throwing herself onto him, conquer him and mark him. She didn't expect staying mad at him would be so difficult, she sucked in her breathe and whispered, "Oh holy mother of..."
"Pale skin..." he said huskily as he drove himself dangerously close to her which wasn't helping her situation, "warm near cheeks!" he gave her a cocky smile, "Its bobbing up and down, you are gulping your saliva!" he said tracing her esophagus with his forefinger
"What are you observing the symptoms for?" she asked, she was annoyed
"It's because of testosterone boost, adrenaline rush and arousal..." He whispered as bent down to bite her ear shell
"We have a press conference to attend!" she said trying to stay neutral with all her energy engrossed to triumph the mammoth task of acting to be unaffected, but it was the Asad Ahmed Khan standing in front of her.
"You are the most feisty and unarguably hottest tempered lady I have every come across. I wonder how someone can be so haughty and naughty at the same time?!" he grazed her jaw line as if trying to memorize her skin.
"Naughtiness? Where did you find it? I didn't even act naughty-"
"You don't have to deliberately do it Zoya! Teasing is naughtiness, isn't it? Your being is a tease itself and it goes straight down there!" he said and she gasped for a breathe as her mind possessed his words
"Don't seduce me Mr Khan, it doesn't work on me!" she said, "and we have a press conference!" she said... Who the hell announces wedding in the press conference? She was still annoyed and he has to know it!
"Fiesty!" he whispered again dangerously close to her, "so-so beautiful... You have no idea what amount of self control I am enforcing right now!" he whispered
"Stop flattering!"
"It's not flattering, its truth and-"
"And?"
"It should be only me who seduces you!" he said dropping a sloppy kiss on her neck leaving her in a hormonal mess!
*******'
"Mr. Khan you have achieved so much in so less time, now does your life seem complete with the latest addition?" a reporter asked and he smiled and kissed Zoya who was sitting sticking to him on the coach
"I won't say its complete but it seems blissful!" he kissed Zoya again
"Why such hushed and secretive wedding?"
"Yes the wedding was hushed, but secretive? Not really!"
"The media present at the venue didn't even get a hint that you are marrying!"
"Oh than how is that supposed to be the definition of secretive, I didn't hide in-fact I got married on stated day at the stated venue how is it my fault if you didn't click pictures?"
"Still a business lion getting married without royalmasts-"
"I don't really remember reading any book which stated the particular rule!" he cut the question in middle and could clearly hear Zoya sniff in annoyance.
"Does Mrs Khan have anything to say?"
"Uh no not really... I am really happy and don't have any words plus all this thing makes me uncomfortable" she said truthfully, showing off was never her trait!
The conference went on and on, Zoya chose to answer only when and if it was needed while Asad displayed his affection towards his wife whenever and however it was possible! Zoya observed him keenly he looked like a deity a perfect balance of looks and dangerous charm, he possessed such strength that he became utterly fascinating and attractive in inciting, exciting in forbidden way that Zoya couldn't help but drop a kiss on his neck forgetting where she was, embarrassment heaped upon her as she blushed when she gained her senses. While Asad understood it was the time to end the business thing Zoya drove a conclusion that this man was indeed driving her up the wall!
*****'
"Go to the room, I'll whisk the media away!" he said and redirected himself to the hall
"What brought you here Tanveer?!" he said leaning on the railing by his side, while Tanveer swore in her mind she didn't knew asad will manage to catch her
******'
"What took you so late?" Zoya asked as she sunk on her bed wearing her night dress so as her back was facing him, soon a heavy diamond necklace dropped on her chest as he hooked it from behind. She blushed and smiled grazing it with her fingers
"It's lovely!" she said turning before he smacked his lips on her, the dominance in his action blew her out of proportion... It was like he wanted to savage himself, recruit what is his and claim his rights. She invited him in while he mercilessly devoured her hard!
"I want to see you wearing it-" he said while she looked on confused, "only it!" he cleared her confusion as he pulled the strings of her gown to let her free of the barrier between his eyes and her body!
"Say what you want Zoya!" he asked as he dropped kisses on her shoulders
"I want you to love me!" she said, quite a bold step but she was insanely attracted to him and now there was no turning back! It felt as if she is herself handling over the knife in his hands to kill her! She knew slow won't be a word in her man's dictionary but she was willing to give in for him, just him! And very soon she was thrown into a ocean and she felt drowning in it slowly and steadily all of the sudden the process became vigorous and she sweated, her breathing rate increased but she wanted it more so much more, she stretched herself and kissed his eyes those which she found to be a miracle, she felt chillness of drizzling along the storm, she was going high on the gossamer in the sky! She was rotating in the in the boat of passion which increased its course in due time, suddenly she felt stung by honeybees extracting every ounce of nectar she had within her. She rose high... She felt she will die but the next moment she landed on the feather, oh so soft! The sounds around her faded slowly and her body became weightless, she felt herself growing tiny and she finally dissolved and diminished in warmth... his warmth!
-----------------------
Chapter 6- The Mrs Mania
Zoya stared at the blazing flames of the fire, fire something that stands for utmost purity and sincerity, it calmed her to look at how it lightened the darkness dimly lighting their room. She glanced at the sleeping form of her husband who was all in his naked glory... they say true love is something which grasps and gives you glass of water when you cough, massage your head when it hurts but for her it was the thing that would set the water ablaze! Asad was that one for her she didn't knew what she felt for him but she felt warm and relaxed in his arms. Though it's a thing to ponder why deep love always had metaphoric relation with fire for others but right now it seemed so true to her, after experiencing it live from nobody else but her husband!
She walked towards the dressing table to admire herself in the mirror when her body was drowned in her husband's shirt that pretty looked like it engulfed her! What difference did a marriage can make to you? Well it changes you, changes your priorities, glows your body, add a sparkle to your eyes and all this in her case was the Khan effect!
"Zoya, why are you awake?" he asked after he caught his wife staring impeccably at the mirror probably checking herself in his shirt that had got thrown somewhere last night
"Just not sleepy!" she shrugged
"Then why don't we make most from it?!" saying he got up from the bed taking steps towards her and before she got the eyes off the beauty in front of her she felt the ground down her feet disappear. Wasting no time he placed her on bed and lowered himself on her!
"It's morning!" Zoya whispered reminding him about the time, "and the boss is here probably enjoying with his wife!" she giggled
"Aah we were definitely enjoying until you pointed it out, boisterously I may add!"
"You mean to say I am a brat?"
"On bed with me, maybe!" he trailed down his hands caressing her from neck to her belly only to be surprised to see what his touch did to her! Her body arched back with her head tilting slightly, her body was covered with goose-bumps and she felt ecstatic! Since their first night whatever Asad gave her surpassed even everything written in the best-selling erotic novels. Though his behavior intimidated her, she loved him dominating her!
"Are you scared of me?!" he asked being slightly bothered of the goose bumps and shut eyes, she opened her eyes to meet his darkened ones, "Don't be!" he said firmly soothing her tensed body massaging it in the process! Zoya couldn't help but blush at the huskiness of his voice. His hands were tracing her curvaceous body; tickling her unconsciously... he trailed kisses on her jaw line to the corner of her lips. She pressed her shoulders with her quivering hands digging her nails into his flesh making him go even more intense, he wasn't wild but a soft lover whenever he tried to seduce her! She was melting and he continued kissing her.
"Zoya beta, open the door!" Dilshad's voice broke their moment; Annoyed at the interference Asad groaned, Zoya was taken slightly aback with the fury in his eyes...
"Asad, ammi... Let me go!" she tried getting him off her but he didn't budge
"Ammi she is busy, anything important?..." Asad replied instead of her in his usual demanding voice, in the things Zoya understood about Asad she understood about him is that living with his family instigated him. He usually remained aloof and distanced in his own mansion but now due to nikah and all the functions he had to stay with them. He never said it but Zoya knew it was an obligation for him. Though Zoya knew the reason of his behavior, she didn't approve him and this difference in opinion was the root of all their fights they seem to have which enrages Asad to the core!
"Nothing important, just this necklace for the-"
"I have got her one and she will be wearing that, ammi!" he stated firmly and Dilshad had to agree.
"That was rude!" she said and he glared at her
"Let me get it for you!" he ignored her previous sentence but she knew he was affected by it. He got off to get her his gift. She took it with quivering hands even the dimpled smile that would turn her jelly in nano seconds didn't seem to work in getting her over her distress. It took her great effort to even mumble faintest word of gratitude accepting his gift.
"I am tired to tell you what you have to do to say Thanks! But-"She didn't allow him to complete whatever he intended to and smacked her lips on him trying to be as ruthless as he was when they kissed, but she was shivering... Her body was quivering... she had never seen Asad angry, he was placated in front of her yet she didn't knew why she was always afraid to push him, to make him unhappy!
"You haven't improved!" he said while breaking out from the kiss referring to the way he tutored her when they had kissed first, "Let me teach it once more!" saying he captured her lips softly startling her at how soft he was! He extracted every ounce of pleasure kissing her for the time he wished to and broke after he turned her into a jelly mess!
"You will always give below average performance with this!" he said tracing her frown lines taking her into a warm hug. The intense moment this time was broke by Asad's mobile; he broke the hug from his side and took the mobile phone. His lips curved up seeing Zoya clung to him, "It's time to go!" he whispered dropping a kiss on her neck before starting the day.
*********
Asad was dragged to the dining table by his daadi, he didn't wish to hurt her and went with her as she wished. Dilshad lovingly started to caress him by his hair it was annoying him to get a soothing effect as the result of his mother's love! He sat stiff as much he can manage, he didn't want to blink eyes and smile at his mother as that would hurt him because ultimately she would choose her spineless husband over him and leave him to face the havoc of life again! She kept on serving while he kept on staring at the plate waiting for Zoya so that they could leave for once and all! It took her an hour more than Asad to descend down, well she had a task to be completed with some youtube makeup videos! He smirked finally after seeing her as usually someone would do when they meet someone familiar in the crowd of unknown people!
"Zoya, the bags?!" the spoon dropped out of Dilshad's hand with which she was serving Asad while Shirin had smiled for atleast three seconds before it disappeared from her face.
"We are leaving ammi, after the breakfast!" Asad announced while Dilshad tried hard not to break down, it has been years post her decision to move-in with her husband yet her own son couldn't bring it in himself to forgive him. She had thought he had softened a bit when he willingly stayed over for his brother's marriage rituals but it all was just a pretense! She looked at Zoya who was dressed in a navy blue saree, she had worn ornaments matching to the fashion of her saree but it excluded the ornaments that Dilshaad had gifted her. Seeing how distanced her son was trying to make himself and his wife she broke into sobs.
"Asad beta-" Shirin tried to interrupt seeing her husband's fallen face but couldn't manage with words after seeing Asad's expressions.
"Zoya beta atleast you try to-"
"No ammi, if Asad isn't comfortable with staying here its better we leave!" Zoya said unable to meet a mother's eyes that had longing for a son
"Asad, my son!"
"I AM NOT YOUR SON!" he screamed unable to hold on to the pretense anymore, he could not fake it anymore he was more comfortable in his silent world, "I am not your son!" he repeated trying to calm himself
"Asad ekk katil ko bhi allah apni galti sudhane ka mauka dete hai, phir yeh toh aapke apne abbu hain!" Shirin said
"He is not my father-" Asad said calmly as Zoya's hand slipped in his
"As if saying a sentence again and again will change the truth Asad" Dilshad said a bit sternly this time.
"Please ammi, stop it as it will make the situation worse!" Zoya said pressing Asad's hand to distract Asad, she didn't wish to create a scene on a happy day!
"But you said you will stay here for all the rituals!" the old woman said calmly
"I did daadi!"
"But, with the exception of today!" Asad smiled, only his daadi could manage catching him in words.
"Today there is just a party and the venue is closer from my residence so we can manage it well from there!" he said leaving no room for daadi to interject her argument, he left bidding his ammi a rational goodbye.
********
Out in the verandah Zoya saw Asad he was walking as if a huge burden has been heaped on his shoulder, she tugged at his hand grabbing his attention making him turn towards her.
"What?" he asked and she moved forward and quietly place her lips on him, it didn't take long for him to kiss her while she stood silent and slowly she felt him calmed and finally he smiled when they broke for air! She smile and he too reciprocated it kissing her forehead she knew it was his way to express gratitude!
**********
The party too was no less than torture to Asad, there was hundreds of relatives attending their party where he was supposed to be smiling at everyone but he couldn't even pretend when she was present at the place he was present! Nevertheless he continued to talk to his colleagues; everything was so fine until Tanveer entered with her husband! Zoya had noticed the change in Asad's body language as soon as she entered the venue; he had stiffened even before he knew as a fact that Tanveer was here! On other hand sipping her drink from the distance Tanveer continued to glance at Asad furtively, she smirked at his condition... the smirk was for a victory over him or lets say it was just to hide her guilt! She wasn't happy in true senses only had she not left him it would have been her in Zoya's place! She smirked as Asad poured himself drink after drink as she knew it was her effect!
"Thank god I am not stuck with a one-eye woman like you! I am glad you left me Tanveer... or else I would have missed getting the most precious thing for me... Zoya!" he had lashed at her at his conference and his words that he spewed at her so effortlessly as if saying My name is Asad. bothered her. It wasn't easy for him to deal with the matters regarding her until Zoya entered his life!
Zoya saw Tanveer the massacre in today's party, how happy she was until she entered... She cannot let her destroy their life like this! The lady had to do nothing special but just step in and destroy something that had taken hours for Zoya to build up!
"Stop it!" Zoya grabbed the bottle threatening the bartender with her eyes
"Zoya, give it back!" he said as he pulled her by her upper arms,
Tanveer was looking on... Asad resembled a mad elephant!
"She still affects you!" Zoya said and felt Asad soften as her eyes filled with tears
"She. Does. Not!" he stated
"Prove it then, don't drink!" she said knowing he cannot and needed a distraction
"You cannot command me!" he said and trailed off the crowd. Zoya was vulnerable she knew she would break any moment if she stayed there where his family was watching them. She chose to follow her husband and try helping him. She now could understand the reason why he avoided gatherings and ceremonies, he was so loving and comfortable in his world alone... in the world he allowed to enter her... but she still seemed aloof from her own husband! Ignoring all she tried to leave but Tanveer was quick enough to grab her hands.
"Zoya-"
"What do you want now?" Zoya shot her a glare
"Uffo Zoya, I came here after your sasur invited me!" Tanveer said, Rashid and Imran were business associates it wasn't a rocket science to understand that
"I am here to help you out! Life isn't yet gone Zoya... leave him happiness will find you again!" she said
"Tanveer-" Zeenat stepped in for her sister
"Aapi, just tell Anwar jeeju to handle the media" Zoya whispered
"And Zeenat you may want to call a psychiatrist too! And Zoya remember my words get a life by leaving him!"
"Shut up Tanveer! You think my husband is mad? He may act impulsively at times but he is not mad and why would I leave him like you did?"
"I wasn't his wife when I left him and moreover Asad cannot love you!" Zoya cringed at her statement she didn't know what to reply but Tanveer's next sentence gave her the required room.
"Asad cannot love anyone!" she lashed
"I didn't expect this from you! The things you said until now atleast had some sense considering the way my husband treats you... I had expected it! And I guess you too you are wrong being aware of the mind boggling capacity Asad has to love!" Tanveer lowered her eyelashes giving Zoya the strength to lash her more, "Look at me dear! Should I remind you of the extent my man can love?" Zoya closed Tanveer's right eye and the gesture was enough for Tanveer to recognize what she meant. Asad had accepted her knowing she had a stone eye! Tanveer withdrew from the fight halfheartedly and exited with her husband following her. Zoya smirked as she noted that Tanveer hadn't raised her head even once.
***********
I am the way I am, there is no way I can be because I don't want to be any other way! Yes I may not have control over myself, its only because I strongly believe what I read and it read as- When we have control on ourselves we don't desire to control others!
--Asad Ahmed Khan
