BUS...... TUM KO PAANA HAI !

An intense saga of dreams, hopes, hurts, truimphs and tears which last for years.

" Kiya aap mujh se mohabbat kar saktey hain ? " 

Sentence was simple and yet so demanding, full of honest expectations.

He turned his head to see the innocent, young girl who sat on a stone bench with her chin propped on her hands.
Despite of the serious nature of the question and sober look on her face, he couldn't stop himself from smiling.

" What ? what did you say ? " His smile was very real, both lips and eyes took part in the expression.

" I was asking, can you fall in love with me" ? She was a bit confused now. Ofcourse smile was the least thing she was expecting from him on this question.

" Hmm, okay I guess you saw some indian love story movie last night, right ? " He tried his best to give her a sober look.

Children, sometimes, are such difficult creatures to treat and deal with. Staring at the eight year old Kashish, he thought.

" Noooo, this question came from my heart " She giggled. Slight movement brought her natural golden brown silky curls over her forehead.

" Really? are you sure? well then let me tell you that our heart gives us many false, wrong ideas sometimes, specially at your age heart is very uncertain about certain things. " He softly pushed those beautiful curls away from her face.

" So you can't fall in love with me !! " This time her simple sentence and innocent facial expresion didn't fail to make him laugh.

" Look Kashish dear, you're my very very cute little cousin sister so I already love you so much okay? Besides, I'm whole ten years older than you, may be old enough to be your uncle. " He touched her neat, firm nose playfully with his middle finger.

" But I'm not little anymore, please, why everybody calls me little, I'm whole eight years old now" As usual her mood began to change at the common remark about herself.

" Okay my grandmother, you're very old, may be more than your parents and our parents, happy now ? " He chuckled. Teasing this little bossy and moody girl, was one of his favourite hobbies.

And as he expected, her eyes became watery. This used to be the final limit of teasing. The truth was that it was impossible for him to see tears in eyes of anyone of the both sisters.

" Hey Hey, crying is not allowed. I'm sorry baba. " He rose from his place and knelt down in front of her, tying the lace of her shoe. As he did so, she looked at his shiny black hair with interest. At the moment, he looked so cute to her that she wanted to reach out and touch his hair. Oh, she couldn't think further.

" Okay I was kidding. Anyway, back to your question, I just dont understand why people always talk about ' Falling ' in love , isn't there any way which could make people  ' Rise ' in love? I mean love's supposed to be very holy, sophisticated, spiritual feeling in our society , it should make people rise you know. " He tried to change the atmosphere and the topic. He was not expecting an answer for this question, it was just like talking to himself, and that was truth. He often used to wonder about the quotation but never got an answer from anyone.

" Well, sorry cuties, I am sorry, that question was not for you, I would ask the question after like ten years okay?   I guess I'm already half an hour late for coaching." After checking his watch, he was almost about to leave when a sweet, musical voice stopped him.

" Wait ", She raised her hand and motioned him to stop. From her expression, it seemed that she was thinking something really deep. She was Kisa, elder of the two sisters.

" I know the answer " Kisa said energetically.

" For what ? " He was confused. This ultra-mature-for-her-age girl, with jet black eyes and hair was very confusing at times. She was not a very beautiful girl with respect to her looks as compared to Kashish.
Unlike Kashish's fair skin she had a wheatish complexion. Her simple black eyes didn't match with light brown eyes of Kashish. Her black hairs were long but not straight, a bit curly too, a sharp contrast to the long, soft and silky hairs of her younger sister. But her greatest features were her sensible approach at such a young age of twelve, her manners and her neatness in dress and acts. She was simply a neat and clean girl with mature thinking and nice nature.

" Your question Sameer bhai, that how can we ' rise ' in love. " Smile edging the corners of her mouth.

" Now I have a serious doubt that both of you have been watching lots of movies these days, this is NOT a matter to discuss right now okay? We would discuss it when we all become mature enough, I am sorry I ever inquired about Kashish's question. " He gave a concerned look to the elder sister.

" By Sacrifice" Kisa was very determined to say what she had in her mind.

" Hmmm? "

" One can rise in love by giving sacrifice for love "

" What makes you think so ? "

" Look, we watch in T.V and read in news papers, on various national occasions like Defence Day, Independence
Day that how much they appreciate those who have sacrificed their lives for Pakistan. How much we all love them. How everyone salutes them. We all remember them now and then. We give their relatives so much respect. I remember grand mother once told me that those who have sacrificed their lives for our country, for the love theyhad for it, they now live in heavens, above all. It means they have raised themselves above all, don't you think ? " Finishing her sentence, she looked deep into his eyes with hope, like she wanted his confirmation for her opinion.

" Ohh, " A long breath escaped his mouth. She was unbelievable. At such a young age she had resolved the mystery for him which he was trying to understand since so many years. Yes, this was the answer he'd been waiting for so long.

" Yes , Kisa, perhaps you're right, you gave the best example for your logic and at such a young age, great thinking , well done ! " He admired her happily and honestly.

" Thank you Sameer Bhai " Blushing, she lowered her gaze.

In the mean time, little Kashish had been the silent audience to this short but deep discussion.

" Oh, well we would discuss about it later, right now I have to be ready for the cricket coaching,I'm already late"
He glanced at his wrist watch and began to put the sports stuff in his bag.

" Oouhmm, what are you doing, Sameer bhai stop her" Kisa's scream got his attention his immediately.

Kashish had grabbed some toys from Kisa's hands, pushing her aside. Kisa fell down on the grass of the lawn from the
bench.

" Hey, Kashish, how bad you have become. Is this the way to treat your elder sister? He yelled. " Learn how to respect your elders and others okay? Give them to me , here " Sudden interruption made him angry. Kashish was really
possessive and bossy at times.

" She always takes my own things away, even steals them " Kisa's throat became tear clotted.

" Is she right , Kashish ? hey, come here, yes here, in front of me, and now look into my eyes" Holding her soft, little hands, each in his own hands, he made her stand in front of him.

" Tell me is she right? Is Kisa RIGHT? " His voice became a little loud and uneasy.

This aspect of his personality was new for little, eight year old Kashish. Now, scared of him, she put both of her hands on her face, hiding it away from him . This natural gesture involuntarily washed off all of his anger. A simple smile came to his lips, which he turned off immediately.

" Look, Kashish, you are very good girl and good girls never, ever hurt others, even in play, okay ? and besides, you must remember that she is your sister too, an elder one. Always respect her, my sweet cousin. " Holding her fair, pink wrists, he softly pulled them away from her face.

" Okay I hope this is enough for you but if you ever do such a thing again. Well then , I'm sorry to tell you I would
leave your house"  His sudden warning did more than enough to scare her.

" Oh no Sameer bhai, never please, she would never do anything like that again, please but you don't leave us ever. " Kisa pleaded. Both sisters had been so used to his presence and companionship that even the thought of him leaving them was painful.

" I promise Sameer bhai, I would always respect her and others. " The innocent, simple and honest promise of little Kashish melted his heart automatically.

" Yes, my dear ones I would never think about that but cousins you must realize that we can't live like this forever. " Looking at both of them simultaneously, he tried to tell them. " Each life has to take its own course when the time comes. Now I have done my ' A ' Levels here in your city, Karachi while living with you, in this beautiful house. Those last three years with both of you, with uncle and aunty have been the best part of my life. But the nature of my father's job is very uncertain with respect to place. He often gets transfer from one city to the other and last saturday when he called, he told me that we might move even to abroad too if the management sends him to the audit. "

" Abroad? but where? " Kisa was curious as always. But of them were now looking clearly disappointed .

" Not sure, but most probably U.K or USA, as his company is establishing it's new offices there.

" Sameer bhai, would you forget us then" Twelve year old Kisa was curious about the future too .

" Hey what makes you think that, hmmm? I won't forget anyone, anything not even this beautiful evening with my two cute, pretty , dear cousins and friends.  " His smile was very reassuring. " This bench, this big neem tree which often provides shelter to us. Under which we share so many beautiful memorable moments, together. All of these sweet things are part of myself and how can I forget myself, hmmm ? " He caressed her head with a gesture of affection and comfort.

" But who would tell us the stories then ?who would play with us, who would take us to those amusement parks every week ? " Beautiful Kashish was almost about to cry.

" And who would be our all time friend ? " Kisa's condition was not much different from her little sister.

And for the first time, Sameer felt like he had done some sort of mistake. Mistake of too much involvement with these two little cousins of his. They'd been almost addicted to his company now. His behavior and relationship with them was like a elder brother, a friend and may be more than that.

But what could I do ? He was helpless against his caring, friendly, sensitive nature. How can he control his genuine, natural emotions in front of these two lovely, little creatures who happened to be his dearest cousin sisters.

" Don't spoil your present by worrying about the unknown future. I'm here right now, with you two, not going any where okay ? Now tell me how did you get these beautiful toys? He took the beautiful hand made objects in his hands. A cute, small doll and a small hut.

" These toys are sand-made, Papa brought them from lahore " Kisa replied, caressing her hurting forearm with the other hand.

" But I wanted him to buy electronic toys, like my friends have, made in Japan and England" Kashish was not very happy.

" You know what Kisa and Kashish, " His voice was as gentle as a healing ointment.  " These toys are very cheap with respect to money, but they have something really unique, natural and original . They are made up of ' sand' . Yes sand of our own, dear country, you can even smell the fresh fragrance. The same typical smell which emits from the soft, light brown soil of our land, whenever rain comes. " Sameer was saying in a kind, gentle voice and both sisters were listening to him with keen interest and concentration.

" Okay time for ice cream, lets forget everything for a while. I guess Kisa it's your turn now, right? " Sameer dropped the bag back on the ground. He had dropped the idea of coaching today, as both of them were now in a sad mood and their happiness was more important to him than anything else.

" Yes Sameer bhai, Vanilla is my favourite" Kisa smiled.

" Ohh nooooo, please not that " Kashish liked every ice cream except Vanilla.

" Well you can't do anything now hehe, its my turn now, last week we had to eat that bitter chocolate snoop just because of you " Kisa teased her. Kashish's favourite ice cream was chocolate.

" Yes Kashish she is right. Your choice comes next week now. Okay lets move quickly but first both of you go back inside and get you cleaned up. In the mean time I inform Aunty. But please be quick, tomorrow is your school too, so have to sleep early. " He took the keys out of the pocket of his black trousers.

" Hey but wait, what about the home work, hmmm ? " Both sisters were about to rush into the house when his voice stopped them. Slowly, they turned to face him, looking on the ground.

" So caught your theft again, but Kisa I was not expecting this from you too "

" Sorry Sameer bhai. " Ashamed, she kept her eyes downward.

" Okay, now both of you go and do your homework. I cancel the ice cream program today, we would go tomorrow , insha'Allah " He put his sun-glasses back on his face.

Totally disappointed, they began to walk towards inside.

Normally he didn't use to change his decisions so quickly but this time, there was something, some strange, unknown reason which changed his mind.

" Wait" He raised his hand and stopped them which surprised both of them. A feeling of triumph tingled through their veins.

" Okay , I am forgiving you for the last time but no delay in home work again, okay ?"

" We promise Sameer Bhai " They chorused in joy, their eyes sparkling with excitement.

" And before we go, here's something to do " He smiled, and then holding their hands, he brought them under the shadow of the huge neem tree. It was the same tree under which they were sitting few moments ago.

" Hmm, so I thought why don't we leave some cute mark of our friendship here, hmm? even if I go, you never cry okay? This thing will always tell you that no matter when and where we would be, we would never forget each other." His deep voice was very matter-of-fact and reassuring as he scraped at the thick stem of the tree with his sharp pointed key. Inserting the pointed end in the stem, he first wrote Kisa'a name then his own and then Kashish's. All in one line, adjacent to each other.

" How's this " ? After he was finished with the process , he asked.

" Very memorable and great " Kisa smiled back.

" Thank you Sameer bhai " Little kashish was happy to see her name too.

Smiling then, together, they moved towards outside through the big main gate of their house.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Time is such a wonderful, weird and yet essential part of our lives which doesn't have any material existence and yet it affects our lives on every scale. It's something which can be measured but is devoid of any weight, taste or any physical property. It's something which is nothing and yet is everything. Time is very accurate, regular and periodic but there are times, when it seems that time has passed very quickly especially those moments when we have fun, when we enjoy, when we are happy, when we are non-worried and when we are young.

Making a pillow of his arms, he placed the back of his head over it and closed his eyes. It was almost unbelievable when he thought about the last five years which he had spent in his uncle's home. So much had been done. Now twenty, he was in his graduation course. Fourteen year old Kisa was in her eighth class now, followed by ten year old Kashish in her fouth class.

It was just like yesterday when he'd come to meet his uncle's family from Islamabad. It was his father's decision that he should complete his secondary schooling in Karachi. His father didn't want disturbance in his studies due to their frequent postings from one city to the other, so after discussing the idea with Sameer, he sent his only son to Karachi .

Salman Ali, brother of Sameer's father was a well-distinguished business man of Karachi. Very much popular for his honesty and sympathetic approach. A very friendly and understanding person. He and his wife welcomed him at their house with real love and affection and so did their two friendly daughters, Kisa and Kashish.

Sameer smiled when his memory flashed back his very first meeting with them. After meeting Kisa, he'd turned towards her younger sister, who happened to be the prettiest girl he had ever seen. But at that moment, she looked very sad to him.

" Hey doll, you don't look very happy today " Looking into her eyes, he had asked.

" I don't think you really liked meeting me, I'm not as good as Kisa " She said, looking down on the floor.

" Hmmm, and what makes you think so ?" This girl looked very interesting to him.

" She is everyone's favourite" She told him, her tone filled with sheer disappointment.

" Really? why not you ? "

" Evey one likes Kisa, she is very wise and friendly. She makes friends so easily "

" But I like you too " He touched her nose. This cute cousin of his was just like a little, lovely doll.

" Really ? " Her big eyes became bigger .

" Yes, really, you're very cute and lovely, just like a cute doll made up of glass "

" Glass ? " Little Kashish was a bit confused now.

" Yes, very neat, transparent, inside is the same as outside, very sensitive too. It seems that if someone would touch you with force, it would break you" He laughed.

And in response, her pink cheeks turned red. His eyes making Kashish feel as though he was looking right into her mind and reading every single little thing that was hidden there.

" So you're going to help us in homework " ? She asked, looking at his face with interest.

" Yes , why not ? "

" And you won't punish ? " Kashish wanted to clear everything in the beginning.

" Why should I, as long as both of you do your home work regularly " He grinned naughtily.

" But what should I call you ? "

" Hmm...   " He tapped on his chin for a while, like he's thinking some thing. " You can call me Sameer Bhai "

" Bhai ? You mean you're my brother?" Her eyes enlightened with the brightness of affection and sincerity. Yes, she had always missed a brother. A protective, comforting elder brother who could help her in bad times.

"Yes , after all, elder cousins are like elder brothers, aren't they? He took a seat in front of her and crossed both of his arms on his chest. Looking at this cutest girl with pure interest and likeness. She looked like a sweet, younger sister to him. Sister, something he had always wished he could have.

" Oh I am so happy, you know I always wish I could could have a brother, who could protect me from everyone "

" See you finally got one. " He ruffled her soft, smooth hair.

" Sameer Bhai ! " As usual, they called from the other room on exact time. Their loud voice brought him back to the present from the past. So many things were changing rapidly and continously. But some were not.

"Hmmm like their homework " He glanced at his watch and smiled.

He threw the last glance on the book he was revising to teach them their new topic, and then left for their room.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It had been a summer afternoon of thursday, a half day at their school. Kashish brought all of her school friends to her home.

" See , this is my elder brother, Sameer Bhai. " She was telling every one with pride and joy .

Her friends were three girls, all of them were a bit older than her own age.

After he had gone, Kashish's friends gave her meaningful smiles and looks.

" Wow, your cousin is very cute and handsome you know. " One of them said, winking meaningfully.

" He is my brother, an elder brother and yes he is very nice. " Kashish smiled back.

" You're crazy. He is your cousin, you should realize this. A cousin is a cousin and a brother is a brother, there is a difference. " Another girl said sharply.

" What do you mean ?" Kashish felt nervous, angry and confused, all at the same time.

" Nothing you stupid girl. You just keep considering him as your brother and some other girl would take him away from you, okay ? " They giggled.

It was the first time when Kashish thought of Sameer in some other aspect too besides as her elder brother. She, for
the very first time, sensed that she was searching for something , someone who chould be everything for her. Not just a brother, but someone would always be with her, would never leave her, would care for her in all the good and bad times.Yes, she needed someone, who could be more than a brother for her.

Were they right ? If I keep considering him as my brother, someone would take him away from me ? " Flipping the
pages of her poem book, Kashish thought.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

One evening, when he was helping them in their home work, their mother entered their room along with a very good- looking girl. She was of about the same age as Kisa's, hardly more than fifteen. She had jet black bob cut hairs and her smile was one of the cutest smiles which girls have at this age.

" Kisa and Kashish baita, meet Rida , your new friend, " Mrs.Salman smiled. "  You always used to complain about lack of girls here in our neighbourhood, see now here she is " Their mother caressed the girl's head with loving gesture.

" Assalaam-O-Alaikum " Rida'a voice was no different from her personality. Very sweet and charming.

" Wa-alaikum salaam " Kisa returned her smile and hugged her with affection. Her deep affection for this new friend-to-be girl glowed with gentle light from her black eyes.

" This is my younger sister, she is eight year old so four years younger than me and this is our cousin who is just like our brother. He is our friend, teacher and tutor too. " Kisa told her proudly, looking admiringly at him .

" Assalaam-O-Alaikum, nice to meet you " Rida's style was very friendly and well-mannered.

" Wa'alaikum salaam, same here, I'm sure you all would have lovely time from now on. " He added and returned
the greeting.

" Kashish Baita, you didn't say Salaam to her ? " Her mother gave her skeptical look.

As an answer, she turned her face away.

" Well I guess she is in a bad mood today, anyway so what do you do Rida and do you know our names have the same meanings ? " Kisa took her hands in her own. To Kisa, this girl looked very much similar to her own personality.

" Really? "

" Yes , Both words have the same meaning, a " Veil " . Kisa told her the meanings.

" Wow, that's amazing. I never knew that, I mean I do know about my name but didn't know the meanings of Kisa"

" Well the good thing is that now you know " Kisa smiled.

" Hehe, yeah sure that is a good thing, I am in class eighth"

" What a co-incidence , our grades are same too " Said Kisa, excitedly. But their names and educational levels were not the only things they shared. Kisa and Rida both shared similar interests, hobbies, even natures and manners too which obviously made them real good friends in no time at all. Very soon Rida became the fourth member of this little group. Sameer liked her too. There was no reason for not liking this wonderful girl with so much understanding and friendly nature and nice ethics. Now, Rida was an essential part of their gatherings, outings and picnics.

The only one who didn't seem to like her and who was really disturbed by her was Kashish. For some strange reason she couldn't get free and frank with her. Though Rida's behavior to her was the same as she had for Kisa and Sameer, but there was something wrong on Kashish's side. Her small talks with Rida didn't go forward than the formal " Hello, Hi and then bye "

For Kashish, Rida was an interrupter who had disturbed their happy personal lives.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

" Hey cousins I've bought these for you " Sameer put the gift packs in front of the sisters.

" Hello everybody, am I interrupting anything ? " Rida's face appeared at door of their T.V lounge.

Hearing her voice, Kashish's whole being became poisonous, mean while Kisa was busy in opening the packets.

" Oh no Rida, we were just checking these new gifts from Sameer Bhai " Kisa assured her with smile.

" Ohhh WOW, how lovely they are, " Kisa screamed with joy . There were two expensive Kurta Shilwar suits with matching Dupattas.

" This royal blue is yours and pink is Kashish's " Sameer distinguished the gifts while giving one to Kisa.

" Pink one is really nice. " Rida praised the outfit.

" It's not, I don't like it " Kashish said coldly. Pink colour was her favourite but now after Rida had praised the suit, how could she praise it.

" Did you like it Rida? " He asked her.

" Yes, very much "

" Okay, you take it then, I would buy some other for Kashish, as she likes "

But the next moment surprised and shocked all of them.

All of a sudden, Kashish grabbed the packet from Rida, leaving her dumb at her place.

" What does that mean. You just said you don't like it ?" Sameer was shocked like every one else. He didn't like this act of hers. Infact didn't like her at all behaving so badly.

" But it doesn't mean that I would not take it " This aspect of hers was totally new for Sameer. Until now, she had
been very kind and well mannered girl in front of him.

" It's okay, after all you bought it for her " Rida didn't show a feeling or an expression and took a biscuit from the
plate.

The atmosphere of the room was tensed now. Not a word was spoken since the last few minutes.

" Hmm, so what about the icecream? " Atlast Kisa broke the silence.

" Oh yes, Sameer bhai please " Rida begged too.

" Umm okay but its prayers time, you wait here I'll be back in a moment "

When he returned, Kisa and Rida were ready but Kashish was not there.

" Where is Kashish ? "

" She is in her room, I guess she's not feeling very well " Kisa replied.

Confused and worried, he knocked at her door which was already partially open. He opened it and saw her lying on the bed.

" Okay now get ready for the Icecream, Kashish. Hurry up, we are about to leave" He instructed her to change but her voice stopped him at the silhouette of her room.

" I'm not going " Her voice was filled with an angry tone.

" What? why? " Astonished, he put his hands on his hips. Kashish's behavior was getting worse and worse day by day.

In an answer, she turned her back to him, never leaving the bed.

" Kashish this is enough. I have been observing you in last couple of months and sorry to say, you have been really
bad in all of these days. You don't treat anyone nicely. What's the problem with you, hmm? " He got near her, at the moment he was really angry on her behavior. She was getting out of control, he wanted to know the cause for all of this.

" Kashish, here, look into my eyes " But instead of that, she put both of her hands on her face, hiding it from him

" I'm asking something Kashish. " His voice was much louder this time as he repeated with questioning surprise.

Silence.

Still no answer.

And this really made him mad. He grabbed her hand, and turned her towards himself. But what he saw melt his heart. There were tears running on her pink cheeks. Her nose was almost pinkish red now. The sight did effect him but still he kept his tone a bit harsh.

" Now why're you crying? " As usual, like he used to do whenever trying make her understand something, he took both of her wrists in his hands. It did make her feel comfortable.

" Look Kashish, this is not fair. " His voice was soothing, his touch was comforting. His nearness was satisfying.

" See everyone around you loves you. All of us are very much concerned about you. If you have any sort of problem then we want to know, but you just can't keep ignoring everyone here. You don't talk nicely with your sister now and even with Rida too, you actually treat her very badly. She is whole four years elder than you , your sister's friend and besides that she is a very nice girl too." He told her gently in a slow, soft voice.

This sentence set her off.

" Yes she is very nice. The only bad girl in this whole world is me. I know her very much. She is stealing everyone from me. She is a a bitch, a WITCH" Her language surprised and shocked him at the same time. His anger returned.

" Why? hmmm? you've got to tell me WHY? why do YOU dislike HER so much ??? " Only now did his control slip. He shouted, shaking her wrists. Her weak, sensitive body swayed from one side to the other but he didn't lose her hands.

" Because YOU like HER " Atlast she yelled, hysterically.

The sentence was very simple but for him it turned out to be very weird, strange and shocking. At first it was difficult for him to understand but her expression made it easy. Her eye lashes bent on her cheeks, her face red. She was stealing her eyes from his.

Tired and hurt. For some strange reason, he felt tired and hurt. Softly, his hands left her wrists. As soon as he disengaged his hands from hers, she fell back on the bed on her back like his hands were the only support for her to stand. Slowly, he walked towards the door. Stopping there for a moment to look at her for the last time and then left her alone.

She watched his response through her thick dark lashes. She didn't move from there for a long time. Lying in the
same position, her mind and heart was full of thoughts and worries.

" I made him angry. Wwhat would happen now?? I am really sorry Sameer bhai but I couldn't help myself. I can't answer you Sameer bhai. Even I don't know even about myself now, how and what am I supposed to behave with others". A pearly tear made its way from the corner of her eye and absorbed itself in the bed sheet. She wiped her eyes with her dupatta and closed her eyes.

Taking it as a usual, common, temporary infatuative childhood crush sort of a thing, Sameer forgot the incidence in next couple of days but it was unforgettable for her.

He began his usual daily routine again. Helping them with their home work, talking, playing with them, taking them
to places. He just became more careful in his behavior with Kashish as he didn't want her to get hurt by any of his act or comment. Too much involvement creates those inner feelings which could hurt real hard later, he knew this. But still they enjoyed all of those golden days of their lives, extracting all the wonderful moments which life had to offer, wishing that such days would never pass away.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

But those days passed very quickly and never came again. Very soon, he was saying goodbye to all of them.

" Aunty take special care of Kashish's studies. You know she is very weak in maths. " He told their mother with a look of concern . Mrs. Saima Salman smiled, nodding her head. It was true , though they were the parents, but sometimes it seemed that he was more aware of Kisa and Kashish than anyone. More closer to them, aware of their natures, acts, and even feelings too.

" And son you take care of yourself too. I am sure you would enjoy the environment of Lahore. Pretty populated but has all the qualities of a big city . " Mrs.Salman said, keeping her hand on his head.

" Yes, infact I was waiting for that since my childhood, but as you know my father never got a transfer in Lahore until now. " He smiled back.

" And Uncle, " He turned towards his father's brother. " Don't forget to take them to Icecream every week and to amusement park too "

" Well, though the duty is tough but I promise " His uncle smiled. " Have a good journey. I am sure you are going to enjoy in your home after all those five years. Your parents would be so happy to see you there living permanently
with them. But here, we would miss you, all of us are going to miss you alot "

" I would miss you too , Uncle and Aunty. " He smiled sadly.

" And don't you ever worry or cry Kashish. I would send a lot of gifts to both of you, okay? " Sameer turned to face the the sisters now.

" We don't need gifts, we just need you to be here, with us " Kashish was practically crying. Her little nose turned red, tears were flowing constantly on her pink cheeks.

" I wish I could do that, but I can't, sorry my dears "

He sat in front of them, on his knees.

" You are very courageous Kisa.... very calm and patient, and girls like you never give away. They fight with every kind of circumstances they face and try to overcome any obstacle they get in their way to make others happy. " He looked deep into her black eyes. " I expect the same from you. Promise you would not cry ??

In answer, she tightly closed her eyes and yet a tear squeezed its way through her lashes.

" And hey you you naughty, bossy girl, you have to make a promise too " He softly took Kashish's right hand in both of his own. Her small hand felt very cold in his warm hands. Looking into her eyes, he tried to smile. But this time his smile didn't do justice with what he felt inside. It was not an honest smile, as only lips took part, eyes and heart didn't.

" Cousin you have to promise too, you would never fight with Kisa, would never let her get hurt, okay? May I have your precious promise young lady ? " His throat became heavy and hurting, as he swallowed the invisible the lump.

Kashish nodded, chewing her lips. It was simply a height of the patience for a girl of such a young age and sensitive heart. She stood there, her nostrils flaring in and out rapidly and her lips trembling, like they wanted the permission
to say thousands of unspoken words. She was trying her best to keep herself calm and silent. But the thought of him leaving them for an unknown duration was unbearable. So much hurting and painful. Her heart wanted to cry with
all of her might. Her whole being itched and craved for the release of those emotions and tears she was trying to stop. She tried her best but the when she sensed that the final limit of her patience was near, she withdrew her hand from his and ran inside, leaving all of them.

" Sir, we are becoming late. Your father told me to report at five p.m sharp. " Driver reminded him, opening the back door of black honda accord.

" Okay Uncle and Aunty, take care of yourself, may Allah be with you all to protect and bless you, Allah Hafiz. "

The scene imprinted itself in the memories of three minds and hearts. As his car moved, things began to move with time, like a passing wave in a slow motion. Mrs.Saima Salman was the first one to wave her hand, saying him good bye. Then as his car moved forward, he crossed his uncle and then Kisa. She was smiling at him, with her hand up but heart down.

His car finally left " Salman Villa". Slowly, everything began to disappear, partly because of the gradually increasing distance and, mainly because of blurring of his vision due to thin film of tears which formed in his eyes. The last thing visible was their common companion, containing mark of those old, beautiful days and memories, the big, old neem tree .

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" Nice butt man, she really is some pretty tight piece of ass, that's all what he said about me, haha. " Laughing, the blonde woman in the Mercedes convertible pulled into the strip mall and parked in front of the small cafeteria. Both the car and the women themselves looked out of place in this rather seedy section of Miami.

" Well Linda, this guy Tom really sucks, he makes me sick. We should rather call him a peeping tom " The other gorgeous woman pulled herself out of the car from the next door.

" Oh come on Kiran, he was just praising me, after all, all those daily two hours at gym deserve something from guys. "

" You bet Linda, eh? well if he ever tries to do something weird I am really gonna call the cops. " Kiran gave her a concerned look as they both found a place to sit at the corner of this relatively silent and calm cafeteria.

Most Miami cafeterias traditionally were noisy and crowded at noontime, and Kiran was grateful when Linda decided to drive over to base cafeteria instead.

" He's too mushy to do that you know, those who bark, never bite, remember " Linda giggled and took a long white cigarette from an expensive golden case and offered it to Kiran who sat down beside her.

" Okay so, what else " Kiran asked, putting the cigarette between her full, maroon lips.

" Nothing, you know Kevin asked me out yesterday but I declined " Linda said and ordered black coffee with chicken sandwiches.

" For a chip chop date ?" With a loud sound of " Click ", Kiran opened her lighter and bent her head slightly to show the flame to the fore-end of her cigarette.

" I guess no, a real one. I'm afraid it would finally end up with us sharing a bed " Linda said, lost in deep thoughts.

" You want him so much ? " She blew a thick puff of smoke.

" Well he is handsome, rich, tall, dark and sexy. A son of a big political dynasty in America. I really love his taste in cars and dogs, what else do you want ? " Linda winked at her, biting her sandwich.

" Well he looks more the rock impresario or the drug dealer than a successful business man. I always knew that
sooner or later he's going to make a pass at you" Kiran chuckled. " And I'll lay you odds that he's the kind that loves 'em and leaves 'em. "

" Besides, I like his company too and by the way I remember he has some really cool paki friends too. " Linda smiled lively, ignoring her comment.

" Oh, You mean Amir ?" Keeping the cigarette in her left hand, Kiran raised the coffee cup in her right one.

" Yeah the same guy with moustaches. He's quite a man, isn't he ? "  Linda gushed as she took a few stabs at her salad with her fork.

" Yes, he is a good guy as he's not a typical Paki, he was born and bred here in states. I like his open mindedness. I guess I could consider him for an initial chip chop but not anything more unless I'm ready and determined for my future." Said Kiran, pausing to take a sip of her coffee.

" Okay, I'm not saying that go and sleep with him. I know you're saving yourself for THAT day , hehe " Laughing,
Linda gave her a deep look. Finished with her salad, she started on her french fries.

" Yeah, I am a proud American but that doesn't mean that I'm like the majority. This girl of yours is some what different from others around her " Letting out a long breath, Kiran picked up the cup and stared into the black liquid.

" I know, so you would marry a muslim paki guy born and raised here in U.S, right ?" Linda took a bite of sandwich followed by a warm sip of coffee.

" Yes probably , plus he shouldn't have that " Mom's Slave " attitude. I hate those paki hubbies who prefer their moms over their wives. I want a free life, a separate home. " Kiran shrugged her beautiful hairs with a care-free expression, a heavy mass of hair spilling over one shoulder.

" Well trust me Kiran, these paki and indian guys really piss you off, would you admit that baby ? " Linda laughed in
a funny mood.

" Piss off is such a little word. These typical paki guys actually make me sick. Conservative, backward, biased towards women..... piece of crap , act and behave like a poor villager you know, speak flawless english. I already have to face Dad's relatives very often and that's been some really bad experience for me. " Kiran's tone was very bitter and harsh, even Linda noted it.

" Hey hey, it's too much. So I get the impression you don't like Pakiz, right ? " Linda seemed to enjoy teasing her best friend about her sensitive point.

" Well to be honest, I don't dislike them. Actually, I hate them " Kiran said in a straight, plain accent.

" Haha, well said, I accept some of them are pretty hard and arrogant to deal with. " Finished with the coffee, Linda took her purse out.

" Wutever, I don't care " Kiran took another thick puff of tobacco, smoke forming a long white line in front of her lips.

" But your parents also moved here from Pakistan if I'm not wrong ? " Linda raised an eye brow, wiping her mouth with a paper napkin.

" Yeah they did, and I am happy they moved here. Now we are Americans not Pakiz , and please change the topic now, enough of this crap ! " Kiran took a last, deep sip of the coffee.

" Okay so what are you upto now? Finished with the assignment? " Linda glanced at her watch and motioned her to move.

" Ooops, shit, just forgot that " Kiran replied helplessly,

" You always do, what was the topic anyway ? " Linda smiled.

" Ummm, Intergenerational effects of Intercontinental migration " Kiran laid her napkin aside and picked up her purse.

" OMiGod, sounds deep "

" I guess so but gotta figure it out soon. I'm gonna search for the material from every source. But I'm not the only one working on it, Professor Hudson asked whole of the class to make the same assignment." Kiran's voice was now filled with a tone of determination.

As both of them got into the car again, Linda backed her car toward the outside way.

" Hiya Anita ? " Linda pointed her hand towards an indian girl, who was walking on the nearby footpath.

" Oh Linda, Hi there " She waved back with a joy of recognition.

" We're leaving for university, what about you ?" Kiran asked her, opening the door for her.

" Same here, " She smiled, as she sat beside them.

" Busy busy eh, what brings you over here ? " Anita threw a simultaneous glance on both of them.

" Umm not much for now, we were just having some lunch" Linda replied, turning the car toward the main road.

" So where are you staying these days ?" Kiran asked.

" At the dorm. I can't afford a separate residence you know, plus it's nice to have uni at the walking distance " Anita turned her head to look at the huge and high palm trees growing along the big broad street in the heart of Miami.

" Hey I have been hearing lotz of rumours about some new comer, what about this new chick in class anyway" Kiran changed the subject.

" whooofff.... oh yes dat guy is da bomb you know, he really rocks. " Anita replied excitedly.

" Rocks my sweet ass " Linda giggled.

" What? Do you know him, sounds like I'm the only one who doesn't know about these new happenings " Kiran was bit astonished now.

" Nopes, just heard something that there is this new asian guy in our class. He is really hands, dashing in addition to his rude, hard guts you know " Linda told them with interest.

" Yeah very rudy and stubborn, doesn't even shake hands with girls and stuff you know " Anita added.

" He sounds like some FOB " Kiran smiled thoughtfully.

" What's that" Anita was confused about the abbreviation.

" Fresh Off the Boat, sweety, means new in U.S. " Kiran smiled again, her emerald green pools of eyes adding beauty to her already ultra-beautiful face.

" I don't think so, I guess he came here after transfer from some other state, hmm I guess from N.J or Pennsylvania
but he sure moved. " Anita was one of the most informative girls in her circle, a class colleague too.

" N' just what the hell he wants now ? " Kiran was curious.

" Dunno .... just planning to place his feet here. But he sure is a genius. But I wonder why did he choose Sociology
as his major in masters " Anita narrowed her eyes, recalling.

" Anyway enough of him. Please turn on some music. This has been a tired and tough day. Very hot too " Kiran dabbed at her hot face and neck with a refresher pad and then repowdered her nose and added a touch of fresh lipstick.

Linda inserted a C.D in the player.

" Wow you made my day Linda ' Can I touch you there' , I just love this score " Kiran exclaimed happily.

" It's Micheal Bolton, golden hits ,

" I always wonder which place he's referring to by " there " in this song " Anita chuckled.

" He's really cool and so is the song "

" I prefer Brian Adams and Ricky Martin though. Did you hear this livin'la vida loca? God I love that song" Said Anita, amazed.

They listened to the music, enjoying the moments. It was only after a few minutes that the big sign of Florida International State University made them remember what they were up to. Linda moved the car towards the parking lot.

" Oh Gosh I'm already late for the class and have to meet Professor Hudson first, well have to jet, so later aligator ,
see ya guys, tata. " Kiran took her purse and got out of the car but remembering something she suddenly turned
back, now facing them again.

" What happened? " Linda gave her a concerned look from the driving seat.

" Nothing. Hey Anita, you didn't tell me this guy's name ??? " For some strange reason, Kiran was curious to know
his name.

" Umm not sure but something like sus...mmmm, oh yeah I remember now. It's Sameer ...... Sameer Hasan "

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Click here to read second part of this story

Some stories are unforgettable !

BUS..... TUM KO PAANA HAI !

A Story By IKRAM

ABIDI'S UNIVERSE