Bus.....Tum Ko Paana Hai

( Part 4 )

Enjoy the ecstacy, perceive the passion, experience the emotions,

Kashish stood in her room, staring at the swaying receiver which her hands had just dropped. She rubbed at her face, not sure if she was crying or not. Then her eyes moved to the bed. There it was. A diary, which was partially open. Staring at the white pages, her control began to lose. Her lower lip trembled, her eyes watered.

It was just a matter of time. Few minutes, or may be some seconds, but those few moments were enough to shatter all of her dreams, breaking all of her fantasies and destroying all of her hopes and expectations.

Just half an hour ago , she had come to Kisa's room in search of some poetry book. To her surprise, Kisa's room was empty. Kashish noted the time and wondered why Kisa was not there at ten p.m. It was unusual for an indoor-kind-of-person like Kisa.

" Ammi " Kashish called her mother.

" Yes ? What's the matter ? " Her mother's voice came from the kitchen.

" Where's Baji ? "

" She is at her friend's place. Her friend's father had an heart-attack this evening. All friends are there to comfort her. "

" Oh I see. " Biting her lower lip, she ran her eyes from one corner to the other, and as usual, she admired her great elder sister. Kisa's room was very neat, clean and well-organized, like her own personality.

" Where it could be, hmmm ? " Keeping one hand on her hip, she tipped her chin with the index finger of the other.

And then, her eyes fell on the small book shelf adjacent to Kisa's bed. It was full of books. Most books were on urdu poetry, literature and history, Kisa's favourite topics.

Kashish eyed the first row of the books, then the second, and then, letting out a long sigh, she found the book she was searching for. " Khushboo" by Parveen Shakir. Swiftly, she drew it out from between the other books. But, as soon as she took it out, something came along with it and fell on the floor.

" Ooops." Kashish bent to pick it up. It was a diary with plain black cover, without any title.

Natural curiosity made her to do something against her ethics, as she wondered what it could be.

She turned few pages of the diary. The pages contained some of Kisa's poems, her daily routine, some phone numbers and few addresses.

" Hmm, so my poor sis still likes to write diary." She smiled and without much interest she flipped some more pages lazily. The next page caught her attention, as it had some paragraph in Kisa's writing, with the name of Sameer in bold letters.

Without thinking what she was doing, Kashish started to read it.

SAMEER.....  I wish............. I hope.....I dream...... I pray........ that,  that..........I could tell you this, that I have worshipped you.  I have loved you, from the very first time I saw you. When you came to meet us for the first time. Oh,  you don't know, how much I wanted to tell you this... I just wished.... I could tell you. But weak and sensitive girls like me are very much afraid and scared. You know what Sameer Hasan, we eastern girls live our lives with so many secrets. Secrets which're not revealed to any one ever. We don't have the courage to express ourselves. Specially girls like me, who're without any specific quality.
Nope , it's not an inferiority complex or anything, infact I'm very much satisfied and content with the way my Allah has made me. It's just that there is nothing in me which could match your qualities. My complexion, my looks, my features, my personality doesn't match with yours in any way.  I'm dumb Sameer. I always wanted to tell you but never got the courage and I know I can't tell you this ever. I would be happy if you could find a suitable girl for you. You know what Sameer.... I bet you should marry a beautiful and nice girl like Kashish. She is my blood and is the most lovely sister of the world. I'm lucky that I got a sister like her. Though I'm not eligible, even to give a little sacrifice for you both, but trust me , if I were, I was going to do that . Yes, she does match you in many respects. Your couple would be really great, Insha'Allah. This couple would have many things in common. Yes...... many things in common, including my "Love" .

Kashish couldn't read further, as she felt her throat tightened, her limbs going weak.

These few lines had shattered her whole, wonderful world like crystal glass.

" Why Kisa Baji, WHY ? " She screamed in silence. " Why you didn't tell me ? " But no answer came.

" If you could tell me, I was going to stop myself at the first place then. "After few moments, she managed to stem her tears,

She fell on her bed, mindless for a moment, just staring at the ceiling. She realized, there's not much time. She had to make her mind soon, as " his " question was expected at any time. One one side , she saw her sister's happiness and on the other hand, she saw her own. And then, memories, voices and pictures began to flash in her mind like a slow motion.

" She always takes away my own things. " Kisa was saying, with tears in her eyes.

Tears stung her own eyes, and even as she made a valiant attempt to stop them, they escaped, slipping from beneath her lashes. She felt them trickle warmly down her cheeks. Unable to hear her sister's voice, she rolled to the other side of the bed, but only to hear another voice. This time, it was Sameer's.

" You must remember that she is your sister too, an elder one. Always respect her , my sweet cousin. "

" So will I " She tried  to get back to books but she was so disturbed, so uneasy, that she couldn't concentrate: she couldn't even sit still, she had to get up and walk about, mentally  going over the various things she was going to say to Sameer. After few moments of disturbed prowling, she came to standstill at the window of her room, practically  registering for the fisrt time that the night had finally begun, without her noticing until now. The sky was black, the moon was half, somewhere a night bird was singing and the trees had broken into leaf.

" Look, Kashish, you are very good girl and good girls never, ever hurt others." Memory of his sentence brought a sad smile to her dry lips.

"Yes but what if they hurt themselves while preventing others, hmmm? what about that Sameer Hasan? " She asked to herself, as she struggled with the catch and opened the window to let in air which was cold on her skin, fragrant with the scent of flowers.

" Cousin you have to promise too, you would never fight with Kisa, would never let her get hurt. " His voice was never going to stop. The sounds came again and again and finally turned into  screams.

" Oh God, " She put both of her hands on her ears, trying to stop the hurting flood of voices.

Suddenly, the magnetic field of screams was broken by an even more loud ringing of the telephone. She glanced at the wall-clock and noticed it was eleven p.m. Not very usual time for her friends to call her.

She stood for a few moments as if considering not answering it. But she had to move on now.

She swung away from the window, her mouth tight. It looked like the final moment had come, and so had her final decision. She had come to the final conclusion. She knew, she couldn't buy her own happiness on the price of tears in her sister's eyes.

She was right. It was Sameer.

And then......

She didn't remember how and when she told him all those things. Things, she never believed she would tell him. But she did, at the same time, hating herself for lying to him. She made herself say many things which she didn't even remember afterwards. Slowly, she put down the receiver and came to fall on her empty bed.

" Oh what I've done. " She put her hands on her face, but to her surprise, this time, there was not even a single tear on her skin. Perhaps she had passed that stage. Perhaps, she was beyond any emotion, feeling and thought now.

Taking a deep breath to help gain control, she carefully placed the diary back at its original place and with unsteady, tired feet, she came back to her room.

" And now, you'll hate me Sameer Hasan. I know. " She sighed.

" It's so easy to hate. It's so hard to love "

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

" Your decision doesn't make any sense at all, Sameer ! "  Said his father, shaking out his morning paper and glancing at the front page, as they all gathered next morning around the break fast table. Sameer's father had just returned today from Lahore but was not prepared for the situation he met here.

" I've thought about it with every respect, Abboo. " Sameer glanced at his father and then at his mother. " And I take full responsibility for that. "

" Be sensible Sameer, it's your life we're talking about. " His father reiterated. " Most people won't think about marrying the sister of the same girl who didn't want to marry you . "

" I know abboo but I'm not the "most people", alhumdolillah " He said gently but firmly.

He was true. Most people in the situation in which he now found himself would have immediately agreed to their parents. But Sameer Hasan wasn't " most people ".

" Besides, If I'm not wrong, Ammi did inform you on the phone yesterday before going to Kisa's home. " Staring straight, Sameer slowly gulped down his tea.

" Yes, she did. But she didn't tell anything about Kashish's refusal. " His father replied.

" It doesn't make any difference for me now ! " Sameer said, slowly sipping the last of his tea.

" It does. You're not buying a wrist watch that, when you couldn't get one, you instantly choosed the other. " His father gave him a harsh look.

" I think you both know very well that how much I've been close to both sisters. It's true that I misunderstood about Kashish's likeness, but it doesn't mean that I don't know them at all. I understand both of them, more than anyone else." Sameer put the tea-cup on the table.

" Infact I've always appreciated Kisa's manners and her maturity. She is a sober girl. Though exactly not my ideal, but I've never been so optimistic about my ideal. " He added in an un-emotional tone.

" Oh Sameer you don't understand. She doesn't suit you in many respects. She's not very pretty, she's just an average girl by her looks. What would people say, when they'll see your couple ? An average-looking girl with so much handsome and smart guy. " His mother looked frustrated and worried, which was very natural.

" Who's more important for you Ammi ? "Other people " or your " own son" ? His voice was still very firm and soft. He'd not shown even slightest anger or disrespect while talking about such a senstive matter.

" Oh you just don't understand. " His mother's voice was a little shaky, filled with sheer tone of concern for her son.

" I do Ammi. However, what I don't understand is that what's the use of all these talks when they have already accepted my proposal for her yesterday. It doesn't make much sense now. "

For the next hour their family meeting continued.

" Listen Ammi. You know very well, I can't even think of going against your decisions. But it's the truth too, that this decision of mine is very well-thought. And I feel very much calm and content. The final decision would be yours ofcourse. But just don't forget my happiness. " Saying this, he stood up from his chair.

" And I know. Both of my parents trust me. " He glanced at his father then finished his sentence." As much as I trust them."

His parents didn't reply this time. Both were deeply lost in their thoughts. After all it was not something they had expected for their only son.

" And Ammi, no need for special preparations. I don't like the waste of money on such occasions, which has almost become a part of culture now. Just one-dish party would be enough, and there's no need for lots of parties. " Stopping at the door, he finished his last sentence.

" We can't let him get away with it." His father let out a long breath after he had left.

" He's not a man we should order around for marriage decision. He's not a teenager either. He's mature and sensible."

His mother replied, lost in her own thoughts.

" I'm not sure. " His father's voice was as smooth as the silver-grey hair brushed back from his high forehead.

" But he's very much sure of himself " She replied, still thinking. " Like always. "

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

" Doc please, please help me. You don't know what it's like to be in love, the way Sameer and I are..... " Kashish tried her best to convince the man who sat in front of her, looking at her with an unbelievable expression.

He was Dr.Shahraam, and at the moment, he was finding himself in the most difficult situation after what Kashish had told him.

" No, I dont " Dr.Shahraam agreed firmly. " Nor can I see why you don't simply tell him to forget you and say you're in love with someone else. Come on, Kashish, it's not a child play or something. "

" You don't know doctor." She responded darkly. " I've already told him about you . "

" May be it's alright for you, you're so strong-willed, so firm in what you want to do. But I'm not. It's a whole lie. " He said unevenly.

" Yes, it is. But for a good purpose. It's not going to hurt anyone. Infact it's going to make three people happy. " Placing both of her hands on the table, Kashish looked directly into his eyes.

" What if it affects my reputation? What if my family finds out about it, what then, huh ? " Dr.Shahraam gave her the most serious gesture.

" I give you a guarantee about that. It'll be a secret just between you and me. No one will ever find out about it. It's just  matter of weeks. Everyone will forget it then. " Kashish was very determined in her plan.

" Okay so? But I still can't see why you need my help ? " Dr.Shahraam stared at her with a confused expression.

" You know me, how weak and hopeless I am  "

" Oh God, Kashish you're driving me crazy "

" Please Doc ! All I'm asking you to do is to pretend something . "

" What exactly is it you want me to do ? "

" All I want you to do is to confirm that you and me are in very much love and going to get married as soon as Kisa Baji gets married, okay ? " Kashish, finally told him what she wanted.

" Would they need my confirmation  ? "

" I don't think so. Pretend it only at the front of Sameer. Because, as far as I know him, he won't be telling this to anyone that Kashish and Dr.Shahraam love each other. He respects people's privacy and affairs. " Kashish told him, all in one breath.

" And which kind of benefit you're going to get from it ? " Pushing his body back on the chair, he crossed his arms over his chest.

" My sister's eternal happiness. I want her relationship with her husband to be completely free from any traces of my previous involvement with him. "

Dr.Shahraam kept himself silent this time. It occured to Kashish that he was thinking at the same point now. That's what she wanted. He'd finally understood her situation.

" Please doc? I do know doctors belong to the most sophisticated and noble profession. To serve humanity is their aim. Extend this aim outside of your patients too. Remember, you'll be making three hearts happy. " Kashish said, her lips trembling, and eyes pleading.

" Alright, Kashish. I'll do as you say. However, let me tell you, you've taken a pretty wild decision. But at the same time, I have to admire your spirit. You're sacrifying your love for her. I salute you for that. " Dr.Shahraam tried to smile.

" Thank you so much Doc. That's all I needed from you. " She sincerely thanked him.

After she had left, he let out a long sigh and picked up his intercom.

" Next patient please "

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

And then, it all happened so fast that no one could believe. Every one was shocked and surprised to hear the news of Sameer and Kisa getting married. Specially Faraz, Rida, Wafa, Jahanzaib, Muskaan and Mushkbaar, they were more surprised than anyone else. No one had ever thought that Sameer could like Kisa, without giving a slightest hint before. But at the same time, they were very much happy for them, as both of them were really nice people to them, and they knew that the two were going to make a nicer, understanding couple.

" Kashish, Baaraat is here, you're supposed to be at reception. " Mrs.Salman gave her an instructive look, while trying to put the " Gajra " in her hair.

" Kashish, come on, where're you ? " Muskaan's voice came from outside.

With slow, tired steps, Kashish managed to move forward.  Every face was glistening with happiness, every one was smiling. Between the heavy sounds of band, songs, clapping and laughter, no one could hear the short gasps which tore free from her mouth. While walking in between the rows of girls and women who were singing and clapping at the reception, she slowly moved towards the well-decorated bridegroom's car.

Her gaze going over him as he slowly opened the car's door. Her heart stopped and her eyes widened. He was there, like a pure eastern bridegroom, with all of his bride-groomal glory and masculine charms, so fresh, so alive, so handsome and, ah, so traditional.

Silently, she wished Kisa luck with this wonderful man.

How much difficult it is ....to even think of your beloved marrying some one else.....and how it would feel like to see  him right in front of you, as a bridegroom with all of his charms, but only prepared for some other girl instead of you.

" Hey what're you thinking? Go forward, you're supposed to block him, it's a tradition. " Muskaan shook her elbow and she moved forward.

" Excuse me Sameer Bhai. " She smiled with force as she stood in his way, before he could get out of the car.

On her voice, he looked up into her eyes from the car's seat. She hurriedly looked down, her lower lip trembling.

Ignoring her, he managed to climb out of the car, but a soon as he placed his feet on the ground, she put a hand on his arm, not believing herself for doing this.

" Sameer Bhai, you heard me ? You've to pay some bucks before you get into the wedding hall. " She brought a teasing smile on her lips.

" Okay, how much ?" Instead of her, he asked to Muskaan.

" Kashish is the boss for now. " Muskaan smiled lively.

He turned his face to hers now, but didn't repeat his question.

" Oh, well lets say folks, what about ten thousand rupees ? " She cleared her throat and managed to smile again.

Some times, it becomes so difficult to speak, to say even a single word. Kashish thought, as she swallowed hard in an attempt to clear her tear-clotted throat.

" I won't take less than ten thousand rupees"  She repeated proudly. But the next instant surprised every one present there. Kashish's mouth fell open when Sameer kept the required money on her hand without saying even a single word. No bargain at all, no naughty tease, no sweet words. He turned his face away.

Insult, shame, embarrassment and hurt. For some reason, Kashish experienced a weird combination of feelings. It looked like he was determined to ignore her completely.

Even then, girls started chanting, " More money, more money ! "

But with the help of his friends and interruption from the elders, he finally moved forward.

And then, when he was walking towards the main wedding stage with in the circle of relatives and his friends, she, for the first time, saw him in detail.

With a cream-coloured, raw-silk sherwani, shilwar and a wonderful, maroon, crown-like " Kulaah" on his head, he looked like a real prince charming. So tall, so handsome, so eastern.

" By the way, your Doolha bhai is very cute " Her friend, Saima whispered in her ear.

" Wow, your jeeja is so smart Kashish " Another friend said.

" Yes he is, Masha'Allah. " She tried to smile. Her brown eyes bright with hurt.

They carried him to the stage, where he stood, receiving appreciative glances from every one.

Smiling, Sameer moved forward as his father-in-law, Salman Ali, hugged him warmly. While taking his body into his arms and saying thanks to him, he accidently glanced at his front.

Only then he saw Kashish. She was unaware of every one, standing lonely in between the laughing faces and smiling lips. Her face plain and expressionless, not showing much emotion at the moment. She was staring at him.

This was the moment, when, for the first time during that day, his eyes met with Kashish's for a long moment.
She was seeing nobody except Sameer, her eyes never left his figure.

Confused at her condition, he looked back at her. Her hair was simply done, combed and brushed until it gleamed like dark gold cascading down her back. She wore something strange for today. It was not the outfit which was strange , as it was traditional kurta and shilwar and Dupatta. But it was its colour, which was not so suitable for a teenage girl to wear at her only sister's wedding. She wore a white kurta shilwar, with white Dupatta. There was no particular fancy to it. Just a silver-coloured border around the big Dupatta.

She had matching shiny silver bangles in each of her wrists, six bangles in each wrist. There were Khussa shoes in her feet, giving her a rich, sober touch.

He watched her coldly for an instant then turned his face away.

After the Nikaah ceremoney, while Sameer was receiving greetings from his relatives and friends, some one gently tapped on his  shoulder. He turned back to see a man smiling.

He was John Roberts.

" Oh you. " Sameer smiled, as he hugged him." I thought you won't make it tonight. "

" How could I. It was your wedding after all. I finally got a seat in the last flight from Islamabad. " He smiled back.

" It's wonderful to see you after so many days."

" And believe me, it's even more wonderful to see you as a bridegroom " There was a pure admiration in John's voice.

" You've been very nice, thank you ! " Sameer smiled.

" So how was your stay in Islamabad. " Sameer asked, as they both sat on the huge sofa, with camera flashes clicking around them continously.

" Absolutely amazing. " John said excitedly. " I loved every part of it. I enjoyed my visit very much Sameer. I, for the first time, realized the family values, your ethical social system, the great traditions and culture. You people are not poor Sameer. You guys make the most richest nation of the world. "

" That's what I've been saying all the time back in States. " Sameer said, as he called one of the waiters to bring soft drinks for John.

" And I've decided to get married, to raise a family, to have my own home. Oh Sameer, only now I realized that we westerners have lost our social values in the blind race for rights. The respect of elders, the family values, the social bounds, we have lost all of that. " John said in a painful tone.

" Hey congratulations in advance for the marriage. " Sameer greeted him. " So when you''ll be leaving ? "

" After a week, I guess. But hey, before I leave, I've something for you." Smiling, John took something out from his jacket. It was a white envelope.

" What's this ? " Sameer asked, as John kept the envelope on his hand.

" See your self " His smile was meaningful.

Wondering what it could be, Sameer decided to open it right then. While his eyes on John's grinning face, his hands opened the envelope. Seeing what was inside, Sameer took a long breath.

It was a ticket. Ticket for one-week stay in the bridal suite of a five-star hotel.

" Oh thank you John, but.... " Sameer tried to say something, but John stopped him.

" No buts.  I wanted to give some thing more precious but didn't have much oppurtunities. It's a reservation for Pearl Continental, in Bhoorbhan, Muree. I visited this lovely spot when I was in Islamabad. It's simply lovely. "

" Thank you. " Sameer thanked John as he stood up from his place.

" And hey, take good care of yourself and your wife okay? Enjoy your honey moon. Infact I wish  that you two enjoy your whole lives as a honey moon. "  Laughing, John left the stage.

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

Jahanzaib smiled tentatively at her. His hands down in his pockets. He wore black slacks and a short sleeved, light blue shirt, open at the neck. He, sure was, cute and charming.

"  Assalaam-O-Alaikum Muskaan jee" Jahanzaib smiled again, the whiteness of his teeth accentuated by his tanned skin.

On hearing his voice, Muskaan felt like getting trapped again as ever.

" Wa'salaam " She replied dryly, then turned her face on the other side.

" How're you ? " He reached near her, ignoring her behaviour.

" Not bad. "

" I can see that " He smiled.

" What ? "

" Nothing "

" Where's your sister and Wafa ? " He asked.

" In Lahore. They had exams, so they couldn't come. " She tried to appear as normal in front of him, but as usual, he had noted her frustration. He sure had some keen observation.

" I see. " He let out a breath. " I was thinking if  you could sing some song for us today. You've a lovely voice you know. "

" WHAT ??? leave me out of it. Will you ? " She said bitterly.

" I wish I could. " He rubbed the side of his jaw.

" And get a life. " Muskaan turned her face away.

" Why not a wife? " His eyes intent on her angry face.

Atlast, realizing that it was useless to argue with him, she stood up from her table, finding another suitable place for herself. She sighed with relief when she saw Sadaf, Rida and Samreen sitting around another table at the corner of the huge lawn.

They greeted her and asked about Wafa and Mushkbaar.

" They were dying to attend this wedding.... " Smiling, she told Samreen.

Suddenly a familiar voice touched her ears, someone was about to start a song with the soft music.

This time, when the voice came, she had no doubt about it. It was Jahanzaib's.

Hearing his voice, she straightened up and looked at him. He was on the stage with mic in his hands. Her eyes met his. it was a wonderful incident, as he smiled at her and started to sing.

Phoolon   sa    chehra   tera,  Kaliyon  si  " Muskaan "  hai

Rang tera dekhe ke, roop tera dekh ke, qudrat bhi hairaan hai

On hearing her name in the song, Muskaan felt her cheeks burning. She was uneasy and disturbed due to his bold gaze. He often looked like that, shooting a glance at her with dark black eyes that seemed to strike at her nerve endings.

Hirni ke jaisi, Aankehin hai teri, Bulbul ke jaisi teri chaal hai

Maathey pe terey Sooraj ki laali, Resham ke jaisa tera baal hai

While singing, his eyes never left her face. He had taken all of her confidence. She felt crushed by his swift, all-encompassing glance. She bit her lips together.

Chaand   Sitaaron  mein,  Aik hazaaron  mein

Tera  yahaan   koi  jawaab  nahin hai

Shokh baharon mein, mehkey nazaaron mein,

baagh mein bhi aisa Gulaab nahin hai

He was a good singer for sure, she admitted to herself secretly.

Khushiyon mein " Toou " hai pali, hur ghum sey anjaan hai

Rang tera dekhe ke, roop tera dekh ke, qudrat bhi hairaan hai

Smiling again and again, his naughty eyes flashed over her swiftly, taking in every aspect of her appearance in a second.

She wore a dark maroon kurta shilwar and dupatta of fine silk with matching jewelry and light make-up. Her shoulder-length hair surrounded her beautiful face in a perfect way.

And despite of all of her tries, she blushed heavily.

" You're in love," Sadaf said as if it were a natural thing. Perhaps she'd been inspecting her condition very closely.

Muskaan blinked and stared at her.

" Excuse me? "

" I can see it in your eyes."

" Don't be silly Sadaf. It's not like what you're thinking. I'm not that stupid to think about such a stupid man." Her harsh tone surprised even herself. She just didn't know why her voice used to become so rude and blunt while talking about Jahanzaib. It was confusing and became even more confusing when his voice came again.

Phoolon   sa    chehra   tera,  Kaliyon  si "  Muskaan " hai

Rang tera dekhe ke, roop tera dekh ke, qudrat bhi hairaan hai.

On the other side of the lawn, sat Kashish, lost in her own deep thoughts. She'd realized that Sameer hadn't spoken to her since the baraat had entered the place.

" Where's Quran Majeed, Kashish ? it's Rukhsati time " Her mother's voice made her realize that the time of Kisa's departure had finally arrived.

Slowly, trying to gather her nerves and senses, Kashish raised the Quraan Majeed in her right hand, placing it above the heads of the newly-wed couple as they both began to move towards the car.

Salman Ali hugged his daughter, tears gathering in his eyes. His favourite daughter Kisa was leaving them forever.

Mrs.Salman was the next one to wish her daughter with the final words. " His home is your home now. You belong to him now, always remember this. May Allah bless you two. Khuda Hafiz my dear. " Mrs.Salman atlast lost her patience, as she hugged her elder daughter.

And now, Kisa came towards Kashish. The next moment surprised every one present there when Kashish didn't shed a single tear while hugging her elder sister. Infact, for some strange reason, she was smiling when she took Kisa's hands in her own.

" Don't bother him too much Baji, hehe " She laughed.

" That is some really emotional scene. Isn't it ? " Jahanzaib whispered to Muskaan.

" Yes, it is. Oh we would miss you Kisa Baji  " Muskaan replied, completely lost in the trance of this touchy moment, without knowing with whom she was talking, but his next sentence brought her back to her senses.

" You may cry too if you want. I'm sure they have water-proof make up now "

Sadaf and Rida both held Kisa's beautiful, fawn-coloured Raajhistaani Sharaara and helped her to get into the wedding car with her bridegroom.

The car finally moved, slowly at first, then getting a steady pace, it soon disappeared from their eyes.

Finally, breaking all the dams against the flood of tears, Kashish put her face on the Holy Quran.

Rukhsati " Unn" ki hai, kuch aur nahin pass apney

Aik Aansoo hai, so woh Nazr kiyey detey hain

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

It was nearly one a.m when the Baaraat returned to Sameer's house. But before they could enter the house, Sameer had to face another tough situation when his mother told him to lift his bride up in his arms and carry her inside.

" It's our family tradition Sameer, you forgot. " His mother smiled.

" Ammi but..... "   He opened his mouth to object, not knowing what to say.

" Come on Sameer bhai, Kisa bhabhi is not humty dumty, she weighs no more than a flower. " Jahanzaib chuckled from the back.

Bending, he slid one of his hand behind her knees and with the other, he supported her back. His strong, powerful arms scooped his bride up like a doll, like she weighed nothing. A sweet wave of delicious fragrance intoxicated his senses as he gently carried her towards the house, passing the threshold. And he, for the first time, realized that the slightly trembling creature in his arms was a mass of beauty, femininity and desire.

Once they entered the sitting room, there began another session of customs. Women of Sameer's family helped Kisa in washing her feet in a big bowl. Then she and Sameer had to eat " Kheer " by teasing hands of the girls and women present there. In the last of all, they had to cut their wedding cake. Jahanzaib never ceased to throw meaningful sentences on the couple, as they both shared the cake with the same spoon.

" Hurry up, bhui. It's two a.m now. Take bride to her room. " Mrs.Hasan finally announced when she sensed they were not going to leave the couple even after one whole hour.

" Oh it's alright Aunty. So what if they become a litle late tonight. After all, from now on, they have their whole lives to spend with each other." Jahanzaib winked.

" Hoon, right, I would ask when your time comes. " Saying this, Sameer's mother motioned the girls to bring her daughter-in-law forward. Samreen, Rida and Sadaf helped Kisa in standing up with all of her heavy jewelry and luxurious bridal suit. Sadaf lifted her dress above the ground so that it won't come under her feet, Rida held her heavy Dupatta and Samreen carried her bridal bag with her. Together, they slowly brought Kisa to the dream-like atmosphere of her bedroom. After adjusting her on the bed in a clasical, eastern bridal style, they continued to tease Kisa for some time, whispering naughty words in her ears.

" Hey, we should be going now. " Samreen laughed softly as she glanced at the wall-clock. And then wishing Kisa for the thousandth of time during the day, they left her alone in the room.

On his mother's voice, Sameer put his first step in the way to his room but suddenly, some one grabbed his hand. He turned his head to see three smiling faces. They were Rida, Samreen and Sadaf.

" Na na na..... where 're you going Sameer bhai ? " Smiling, Rida came on his way.

" I.....  I thought. " He found himself in sort of an embarrassing situation.

" It needs some patience....   " Sadaf laughed.

" Yep, and some, ahemmmm, money too. " Samreen giggled.

" Oh, my pockets are empty now, believe me. "

" We don't know a thing. You can't go inside unless you pay a price for it. " Rida crossed her hands over her body.

Atlast getting some help from his parents, he was finally able to have his way inside his room, paying them another big amount of money.

" They really hijack you on your wedding. " Smiling, he thought.

Taking a sigh of relief and murmuring "Allah's " name , he softly pushed the door of his room.

A sweet, fragrant wave of cool air touched his nostrils.

When he was about to cross the threshold of his room, there was only one prayer on his lips....

" Oh, Allah give me power to give all of my love to my wife, give me potential to be sincere with her. May my past never bother us in any way. "

But as he entered his bedroom, he was not prepared for what he saw inside,

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

With the typical ringing sound of the cellular phone, her hand reached to pick it up from her bed-side table. 

" Yes ? "

" I've got some news for you. " It was a thick male voice.

" Related with him ? " She bit her lip.

" Ofcourse. "

" Good or bad? "

" Dont' know. May be good for him, but bad for you. "

"  Tell me "

" You sure ? "

" Positive " She held out her breath.

There was a momentary silence on the other side.

" He's getting married tonight. "

" Nooooooo "  Slipping from her hands, the phone fell down on the floor. With shaking fingers, she took it back to her ear.

" Hello.... what happened ? You shocked ? "

" To death. " She replied, her voice trembling, mirroring her whole body.

" Try to calm yourself. He was not in your fate. You've your whole life ahead of you. Don't ruin it for a  single man who didn't even love you. "

' I...  I would try. " Words obstructed her throat.

" Yeah. After all he was not the last man on earth. You could find many men like him. "

" Okay talk to you later.   And hey.....

" Yes ? " His voice became heavier.

" Keep me informed about him. "

" I sure will "

" Thanks, see you " She finally turned the phone off and sighed.

" So you were not mine ?  It's so hard to believe. " She thought painfully.

" So what if you're not here with me. Atleast I've your sweet, wonderful memories to treasure on. And yes, I can spend my life with your memories. It won't be a bad deal at all. "

Unlike her bright memories, the night was dark. Really dark and deep.

Shab ke jaagey huey taaron ko bhi neend aaney lagi

Aap ke aaney ki aik " Aas " thi, ab jaaney lagi

" Happy marriage, Sameer. " She whispered, as her hand reached to hold the same blue handkerchief. Slowly, she took it to her eyes, wiping her tears with it.

And then, there began a continous series of his memories, never leaving her for a moment. His memories were like breaths for her, as they continued to enter and leave her mind like breaths. In and Out.  In, out.

  " Yes... " She managed to say with utmost difficulty.

" I can find some man " like " him. May be someone even better than him. But..... he won't be " him "

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

The master bedroom was huge but practical. The luxurious, king-size brass bed was seven foot wide, with royal blue satin spread, and pillows. Its bronze, fan-shaped headboard matching the bronze and smokey-grey glass bedside tables. The bed had beautiful wedding-styled shelter of roses, arranged in straight rows, completely covering the bed from four sides. The carpet was darker blue, thick and soft, and was well-complimented by pearlised blue-grey walls. Heavy satin curtains were so identical in colour to the walls that it was only the thickness of the material that brought them to the eye.  A sofa on one wall and a few easy chairs were also present in the room, adding a practical touch to the place.

But that was not which shocked Sameer.

It was Kisa, who surprised him, shocked him, scared him.

He had expected that his bride would be sitting in the centre of  the bed, in a typical traditional bridal style of the east, with her face down, her ghoonghat covering her completely.

But, this was not the case here.

She was standing, right in front of him, with her ghoonghat covering her hair only. Her face was uncovered, all wet with tears. Her nose was red and her lips were trembling. She was sobbing, crying, not loudly though.

Yes, she was crying. But why ?

" Are.... are you alright Kisa ? " Open-mouthed, he asked in a worried tone.

She didn't say a thing and just stared at his face, short sobs still coming from her mouth.

" Listen Kisa. There's nothing to worry about, no matter how worse the matter is. You can trust me. Remember we are friends too ? "

Slowly, he moved towards her.

" Yes we are friends first, then a husband and wife. Tell me what's the matter. " His voice was soft, his tone sweet.

His gentleness was deliberate to get her started.

" Are you ill or something, please tell me. " He muttured as she stood transfixed in front of him.

" I'm not ill. " Atlast she managed to say few words, trying to hold back more tears.

"Are you sure you're all right, hmmm ? " His concern was completely genuine, and because of that it caught her off guard. She stared up at him through eyes which for no big reason at all had decided to film with tears.

" Listen .... " She gasped between sobs.

" I've to tell you something. "

" What ? " For some reason, he couldn't get near her yet. He stood at his place and waited.

" I,   I.......... "

" I know we don't make a good match.... " She finally said, her voice heavy with tears.

" I do realize this. I also guess you're not marrying me on your wish. May be Aunty forced you to do so, right ? But please, I beg you, don't feel bad because of me, please ? I know I am not very  beautiful. But...I loved you...I love you, I always have " Kisa finally opened her heart in front of him.

Oh, what she was saying. Her words shocked him even more.

" I promise you to service you, to try my best to make your life beautiful. But...... but, just don't ignore me. Don't hate me. Please ? " She groaned inwardly.

" And I can't live without you.... just don't leave me ever, please ? "

" Oh  " He let out a long breath of relief. Poor Kisa. She was scared, afarid of him leaving her, that he would treat her badly. Crossing both of his strong arms over his broad chest, he reached exactly in front of her.

" You really scared me Kisa. " He smiled softly.

His fingers reached to pick up her tears one by one, never letting anyone go wasted.

" Hey, hey...what do you think of me, huh ? " Putting his hand under her chin, he slowly, gently tilted her face upwards, so that he could look down into her teary eyes. He caught one droplet on the tip of a finger.

" I choosed you according to my pure personal preference. I always adored you Kisa. I find all the essential qualities of a good wife in you and that doesn't include extra-ordinary, show-biz like beauty. I like your simplicity. I like your soberness, your manners, your maturity. " His words felt like a magic.

" You know what Kisa...... you have touched me with your depth, your wisdom, your enterprise, your kindness, your devotion, your loyalty, your patience and your love. " His words were pouring a sweet essence in her soul through her ears.

" Yes and even you don't know your own qualities. " His lips framed the words slowly.

" Let me tell you " His voice filled with honesty and trust. " You're brilliant, charming, witty, elegant, attractive, sincere, confident, well mannered, well educated, erudite and outspoken and yet, ah... so shy. " His words became a mere whisper in the end .

It sent a shock of disbelief through her.

She couldn't believe her luck. Was this all true ? He was praising her actually, like he respects her, cares for her, may be even loves her. She began to cry again. But this time, these tears were due to intense happiness she felt. She cried, her tears covered her whole face. She became senseless. But then, she felt gentle touch of someone'e lips on her eyes, wiping her tears away, picking them up, kissing them away. Bending his head, his his mouth brushed her lids, and that was comforting; she sighed shudderingly.

Hers sobs stopped, she stood very still, quivering at the strange sensation, her tears over.

" I'm not  beautiful " She whispered unevenly, shakily.

" Shhhh sshhhhhh " His hand smoothed her hair back from her face.

" It's not  important to be beautiful.... infact.....it's beautiful to be important. " His words caressed her heart and soothed her mind.

" Besides, you' re beautiful. You can't judge your beauty in your own eyes. "

She tried to say some thing more but he put his long, slender finger on her soft lips, silencing her, playing with her lips.

" No yesterdays, no tomorrows,  just these moments. Just you and me alone, and this night. His words came like a spring season, refreshing her whole being.

" Yesterday is a history.....   " He was gentle.

" Tomorrow is a mystery... " He was sweet.

" Today is a gift.... " He was kind.

" Yeah, that's why we call it present. " She laughed, lashes shadowing her cheeks.

" Thank God, atlast you laughed. " She heard him laugh softly, deep in his throat.

" Infact, you're very beautiful. "  He had to tell her what he felt inside at the moment. " You are as lovely as the dawn. The light of the world shines in your eyes. Your face is stunning. Your cheekbones high. Your dimples adorable. Your eyes electric in depth. I look into your eyes and I sink. "

His gentlenes didn't surprise her at all, for he'd always been gentle in all the other things as well.

" Wow, you know how to praise women. "

" Nopes, actually I know how to admire my wife's real beauty. " He said, then remembering something, a smile came to his lips.

His hand reaching up to cup her chin and tilt her face again.

" Hey, Pakistani brides are supposed to express some shyness on their first night. " He teased her, trying to hold his smile.

His sentence brought her back to the sheer reality. She realized, for the first time, that where was she, why she was   here and how was she?

Oh, she was his " wife" now. His new, fresh bride. And they were alone, for the first time. Yes, they both were alone, sharing their first night together.

" Go back to bed, sit there and wait for me, there are some private traditions reserved only for husband and wife, and we're not done with them yet. " He smiled.

Shyly, but carefully, she adjusted herself on the bed again, exactly in the same manner like her friends had done earlier.

" Yes, that's the way it is. " He murmured.

And then, for the first time he looked at her in a way, in which a groom is supposed to look at his bride, like a husband is supposed to see his wife. He saw her, as she sat there at the centre of the bed. Her romantic, softly curving figure was set off to perfection in a new, eastern, traditional, Rajhistani bridal dress with a matching heavy Dupatta.

Slowly, he unbuttoned his raw-silk sherwani, revealing his white kurta underneath. It did a little to hide his strong, shapely figure.

" Janaab, " His tone was naughty. " How do I look like now, tell me. " His voice was teasing.

She couldn't raise her head.

" Look at me. " His voice came again.

But shyness was too heavy at the moment, despite of her best try, she couldn't raise her head to look up.

" Hmm... so  you won't obey  " He smiled softly.

She tried again, but all she could do was to raise her lashes a little. This time, she became successful in watching the man of her life though her lashes.

He was wonderful. He looked handsome, even more than before. Wearing plain, white Kurta shilwar, he looked so    "young" and cute. She couldn't see more. Blushing, she fixed her eyes back on the golden bridal purse present in her lap.

" Ahemm ahumm " He cleared his throat. " May I proceed Kisa jee ? " He smiled as he began to walk towards the bed.

Then he stopped, saying nothing. She heard the sound of cupboard opening and then closing. Perhaps he was taking something out.

Perhaps, some gift? She thought. Then, reaching there finally, he sat in front of her, facing her.

As she saw, she noted it was some gift box, a big one, as he placed it beside her.

" Guess what I've got for your Moonh-Dikhaai " He said, then began unwrapping the box. It had several other items inside it. He carefully unpacked it and then picked some specific object.

" So I thought why not try something different today? " He smiled wonderfully. " When every one turns back the ghoonghat, I would try to see my bride's face without removing the ghoonghat ." He smiled again, his mind playing games.

His soft words touched her like a physical caress. Her head lowered down, atleast six more inches.

" How it was possible ?? If  he won't pull down her ghoonghat, how could he see her then ? " She couldn't understand what he wanted.

Smiling continously, he slowly turned his back to her, and then began arching his back slowly, ever gently towards body. He lowered his head backwards, lower, more lower, until his head was finally resting in her lap. Now his face was exactly below hers. His eyes looked up, to see her eyes looking down on his. Their eyes met. Hers shy, his bold. The whole universe began to smile.

She looked so unique to him. With her ghoonghut still covering her head, her nose was small and slightly narrow, and her cheeks were rounded with just a hint of dimple.

It was unbelievable. Never had she thought something so romantic. He was ....... She couldn't think further as her eyes captured what he was holding in his hands.

It was a simple but smart gold necklace with a prism-like small diamond in its centre.

" Those men, who give a locket or necklace, well they're too romantic . " The memory of her own sentence made her grin. She didn't show it though.

Slowly, very gently, not raising his head from her lap, his hands went around her soft, creamy neck and closed the necklace around it.

" Touch me " He breathed.

Yes, that's what she wanted, to touch him, feel him. His words were like a key which unlocked the door of her hesitation, giving her the ultimate permission. With shy, trembling fingers, she smoothed his hair back, where it had fallen over his forehead.

So soft, smooth, silky and fragrant. She liked the texture of his hair. The feel of his skin was unbearably lovely, as she slowly caressed the skin of his forehead with her fingers.

They felt each other's touch for some moments. No one saying a word. Just the sounds of swift breathing.

Then, he softly lifted himself off her lap and left the bed.

Reaching near the window of the room, he pushed its covers aside. The night was lovely outside. With moon spreading its light over the land, everything looked so shiny and cool.

Still without saying a word, he held out an inviting hand.

She understood his signal. Mesmerised due to his mysterious trance and lost in his magical spell, she slowly left the bed and reached near him. Staring into his dark, deep eyes, she gave her hand into his. Together, they paced to the window, to glance out at the sky which was filled with stars, with the moon in between them. Trees stood black against an indigo sky, picked out by starlight.

They peered up at the moon through the window.

" It's lovely night " She felt her heart throbbing.

" You're right " He felt his pulse squeezing.

" Chaandni Raat Hai " Her remark was spontaneous.

" Chaand bhi saath hai " His response was instantaneous.

" Say some thing " He touched her trembling lips with his finger.

" Sing some thing " She smiled softly. " I know you can sing. You used to sing many songs for us when we were young."

" You remember ?" He laughed.

" Yes "

" Alright, what do you want to hear ? " He gently took her in his arms.

" Some wedding song " She whispered, smiling.

" As you wish, glad to oblige you " He grinned and cleared his throat before starting to sing one of his favourite, classical, old romantic songs.

Do sitaaron ka zameen par hai milan, Aaj ki Raat. "

Muskuraata hai, Umeedon ka chaman Aaj ki raat

She listened to him with interest. His voice was dreamy, like every thing else present around them.

Rang laai hai, merey Dil ki lagan aj ki raat

Saari duniya nazar aati hai " Dulhan" aaj ki raat

Tor dey, tor dey..... " Pardey " ka chalan, aaj ki raat. "

" That was wonderful, thank you. " She murmured in a magical voice, as he finished the song.

He slowly pulled back the window covers, separating himself and his bride from the rest of the world.

" I haven't uncovered your hair yet " Suddenly he realized that her ghoonghat was still on. He wanted to see her completely now.

Gripping one of its corner between his long, slender fingers, he slowly pushed it away. Slowly, very slowly, gently, firmly, lovingly, charmingly.

" Oh, my God " He gasped as gradually her head got free of the bridal veil. He reached back and pulled her hair around, untied the ribbon on the end. It fell shining, full and long behind her. He had never seen so long, such a beautiful hair. Shiny, silky and extra long, almost touching the back of her knees. The dim, dreamy light of the bedroom caught the shiny jet of her hair and the intensity of his gaze made her skin burn. The present condition of her hair made her feel vulnerbale and unprepared.

" Night is about to over. " She managed to say with difficulty.

" Yes, not the love though ........ "

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

" Incredible " He murmured.

" You're a beauty, Masha'Allah "

She felt proud and at the same time, she was so much thankful to Allah, that " He" had given her the precious gift of       "him".

" Let's dance " He smiled and softly, playfully, touched his nose to hers.

" Wha...what ? Sameer, please but I just can't do that. I don't know a thing about it " She was blushing like a sixteen-year old girl.

" Neither do I. Never danced or never attended even a single dance party, but lets try it tonight. " On his bold suggestion, her heart began skipping beat in a schoolgirl fashion.

"As this is the right and appropriate occasion for this, and..... for every thing. " He added softly, secretly.

He turned on some soft piano music on the bed-room stereo system. It was simply a dream. Kisa couldn't believe what she was feeling, what she was seeing, what she was hearing and what she was experiencing.

Dark, deep blue bed-room light produced their beautiful shadows on the carpet, moving with the music. Kisa felt like she was crossing the border of a dream-reality, with its blue-shaded lights, its fragrant air and natural romantic music.

He stepped closer to her, holding out one of his hands.

" Hey you don't have to do anything, just give your right hand in my left one, " Sameer's voice made her believe that it was not a dream.

She put her hand in his.

" Yes, like this, now put your fingers between mine, " He instructed her gently. She obeyed him lovingly, and yet she felt a dark blush covered her face with every move she made.

She felt the contact of his hands, warm and heavy and stood very still. Every detail of his hands was conveyed to her through her skin sensors.

" Now your left hand on my right shoulder, hmm alright. Now just let the nature take the course." He put his other hand on her waist. His words were caring, understanding.

Slowly, they began to dance. Very gently, romantically, swiftly and soberly.

They moved around the room with the soft, barely audible music, in perfect rhythm with each other.

" Say something " He whispered, as she placed her cheek on his chest, burying her head against his shoulder. Kisa felt the most beautiful feeling and sensation as her body touched his. Her fingertips touched his shoulder and she wanted to lay her hands along those broad shoulders. He pressed his fingers against her back and steered her with the pressure.

She didn't say a word.

She couldn't say a word.

His mere whisper stimulated her pulse. He kept his eyes up, she kept hers down and they continued moving.

He hid his face with in her rich, luxuriant hairs, breathing deeply, smelling the pure, sweet fragrance which was only hers. She was satin and silk, soft femininity and gentle perfumes, milky skin and dark eyes.

" You're beautiful, dear wife. " He muttered softly into his ear, then raised his hand and lightly stroked a strand of her silky black hair.

She wanted to tell him she wasn't---- her looks weren't anything special, just average, nothing more. But he had a way of telling her she was drop-dead gorgeous, then making her believe it. Because no one had ever worshiped her as if she were a gift sent down from heaven just for him.

" You have only to look into a mirror to see the beauty and femininity you possess in breathtaking abundance. " His hand drifted to her cheek, his touch feather-light.

There was no need. She could see it reflected in his eyes as he regarded her with heart-stopping intensity. Her heart hammered against her ribs.

" Did you say something....... ?" His lips brushed the curve of her ear.

" Did you hear something? " She asked back in the same tone, laughing softly. She studied the room over his shoulder, her long, thick curvy eyelashes decorating her cheeks.

They were swaying along each other's breaths. They kept moving, one triangle after another, around the room.

" Did you get what you wanted ? " Playfully, he pulled a soft, silky curl of hers.

" Yes, the fulfillment of my prayer "

Slowly and shyly, she turned herself away from him, conscious of the fragrant manly, musky smell of him.

" Well, that is rare " His warm breath touched the soft sensitive skin behind her ear. She shivered.

From behind her, he slid both of his hands around her waist, touching his cheek with hers. With an involuntary motion, she arched her back. Her arms reaching behind her own body, then behind his neck to hold him there for support. He was irressistable. The heat travelled through her skin as if it had been touched by branding iron. Gasping, turning back to him, she placed her shaking hands on either side of his face.

Nothing had a name or meaning anymore; dimly, madly, she realized that she was past all thought. There was nothing, nothing anywhere but this.

To her tender delight, her deep surprise, he mirrored her action. He took her face between his hands and with shaky fingers started tracing her features, one by one, with delicacy and lightness.

" Your love is royal "   Her fingers were feather soft, like velvet on his face.

" And your's, loyal "

Unable to control herself any longer, she wound her arms around Sameer, revelling in the complex contours of his back, the ridges of muscle that flexed beneath her palms. He smelled so good and his body was so strong and yet so familiar.

She wanted him, she needed him in her life.Yes, she had wanted a man who was hers, just hers. She needed her mate This was her man. Her man. Possessiveness rose in her intensely, stronger than she thought, a deep-running instinct.

She experienced a profound feeling of need, of tenderness, and imagined that her very veins were suffused with racing lava.

" Yours feet won't move   " Their bodies swaying from one side to the other, simultaneously, at the rhythm of the music.

Hearing his voice, her feet with no will of their own, matched his pace as they had in the fleeting vertigo of their dancing.

" I'm scared " She was so breathless she could barely speak.

" Scared, but why? " The warmth of his breath caressed her skin. She drank in the intoxicating smell of him, a combination of after-shave, perfume, body spray and that individual, unique scent that was his alone.

" Ummm not scared, but shy " She took a content breath and finally opened her eyes to found him at the very front of her.

Sameer's feelings were no different from hers. She was reaching him at a level so elemental, so basic, that he could almost feel the connection of his soul to hers. She was his wife, without her, the life was going to be..... Oh, he couldn't even bear to think of it.

"  And why these lovely eyes are closing " He touched her thick lashes with his lips. His touch sent tremors through her.

" Because of your touch, which's growing " Hesitatingly, she managed to say.

" You're like a dream, " He murmured. " This is like a dream, Kisa. "

Possessiveness made him protective. She was his to care for, to shelter, to cherish, to love. He would place himself between her and every danger or fear. He would ensure that with him she was always safe. He would give her nothing but joy and comfort.

He then traced an imaginary line on her soft, silky skin with his index finger. Starting from her temple, the finger moved, slowly, down her cheek and chin and jaw with exquisite lightness, as if she were something utterly fragile and precious. The wonder in his look was repeated in his fingers.

The finger moved down over her neck. She gasped when his finger reached the sensitive area at the junction of her neck and shoulder. Next, his finger slid to her throat and came to rest on the pulse which fluttered like a caged bird. Moving up again, his finger now met the beating hollow at the base of her ear.

" You are bold "

" Just like gold " Lifting her hair with a gentle hand, he blew his warm breath on her nape.

" What ? " Her voice very low.

" Your skin " His lips brushed the spot where her neck met her shoulder.

She couldn't stop the audible intake of breath. He was very gentle, touching her with a kindness that made her throat tighten.

His contact was so fleeting, so delicate, so swift and yet she was electrified.

" But I have been sold " She breathed.

" Really ?

" Yes, in your love, and without any price " She closed her eyes to feel and perceive the royal emotions his touch was creating.

" Aha, say it twice " He gave her body a romantic twist, completing a circle in their slow, sober, sophisticated dance.

" You're the most precious gift in my life " She laughed, her eyes still closed.

" So is my dear wife "

" You're my pride "

" So is my lovely bride "

At the moment, Kisa thought of herself as the luckiest woman on the planet. Physically he was everything she wanted in a man. Mentally too, he was intelligent, sober, brilliant, genius and full of common sense. In the simplest words, he was her ideal. Kisa felt, for the first time in a long time, safe and secure in her life.

He had been gentle, knowing her needs as well as his own, living through his imagination just as she did.

Filled with the fragrance of roses and jasmine, coloured with the light blue, semi-dark shades, and running along with the soft, barely audible whispers in between the music produced by the striking of bangles, it was a heavenly atmosphere.

Specially, when two pure, reserved and untouched bodies touched each other for the very first time, nature smiled, holiness giggled, shyness blushed, innocence laughed and love praised them.

It was the most delightful, wonderful, passionate and romantic night of their lives. The only thing that made its passing bearable was the knowledge that it would only get better.

Aasmaan ko bhi yeh haseen raaz hai pasand

Uljhi uljhi saanson ki.... Aawaaz hai pasand

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

It was the most worst, bad and ugly night Kashish had ever experienced. Rolling on her bed, from one side to the other, her heart was was beating so fast that it felt like it will break her rib cage at any instant.

Then, sweet memories began to fill her mind. Memories of their childhood. Memories of Faraz's wonderful wedding. She remembered those sweet transfer of gestures and looks between herself and Sameer. Her heart sank and for a moment she stopped quite still. Remembrance came, nauseating sharp, the past whirling again.

It was the last night she dreamt of Sameer Hasan, willingly, a jumble of images that fast receded as she opened her eyes to the morning.

" Stop it Kashish. He's your brother-in-law now. " She told herself.

But she also knew that it was going to be impossible while living so near to him and yet not to think about him. The best possible way to get rid of his memories and trance was......

" Yes " She finally made her mind.

I will go very far from here. As  from now on, it won't be possible for me to see you in the way I want to. Oh I love you both......

Slowly, she opened her eyes and listened to the birds making sweet wounds. She realized it was a near morning time now.

To soothe herself,  she decided to offer Fajar prayers and sat at the " Jaey-Namaaz" praying for the newly-wed couple and for her own future ahead. With in ten minutes, the beauty of prayers had worked its special magic on her heart. She felt really better, after emptying her heart in front of Allah. She felt like she was not alone. Her creator was there, to share everything, to comfort her, to calm her.

After that night, things started to improve. She drew her shoulders up and decided to quit manufacturing problems for herself. Life was challenge enough as it was. Kashish took admission in Quaid-e-Azam university,  Islamabad, to do B.A honours in English literture. It was the same university where Wafa was doing her masters, so it didn't feel much hard for her to adjust in a new city and environment. Over the next few months, things got better still. Kashish was very much determined in her plans and ambitions, when she thought about giving CSS exams for getting a high post in Pakistan Governmnet, later.

She, sure had, some tough years ahead of her. 

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

" Guess who, baby? " Said a voice in her right ear.

"Jesus Christ, Anita, you scared the shit out of me ! " Gasped Linda.

" Come on gal, life is pretty scary itself, don't be so creepy " Anita ruffled Linda's hair.

" What're you doing here by the way ? "  Anita asked.

" What else I can do in a dress shop ? Ofcourse trying to buy some clothing. " Linda frowned, as she called a sales woman.

" Show me this jeans. " Linda told the sales woman.

" Wow. It's fabulous. You'll look sexier  "  Anita pressed her left eye.

" I thought I already do . " Linda smiled seductively.

" I personally prefer Levis, ice-blue colour. Pretty comfortable and makes you curvy. It's even better if it's a little skimpy, you know. " Anita smiled.

" So wassup honey ? Any thing new or really exciting ? " She took the cigarette from Linda's offering hand.

" Hell no. Same boring crab-like life. Even more messed-up now. "

" Why ? " Anita took the burning cigarette to her lips.

" I refused to marry Tom. "

" What ?  Baby, don't try to kid me. " Anita couldn't believe what she was hearing.

" I'm damn serious "

" Where in the name of God did you get an idea like that? You know every gal in town is thrilled to death over him." Anita asked, trying to select some thing for her from a hanger full of trousers. " I really thought you two gotta married"

" No way. He makes me feel like a kid with a nanny or something. Besides, I'm not ready for marriage yet. I mean, first, I want to enjoy life in it's fullest. Anyway forget about me...what about you ? How's your new boy friend, umm I forgot his name. "

" Sabeeh Khan. This chick is from New York, was born and raised here, though his parents are from India, like mine. " Anita said, finally selecting a pair of sky blue trousers.

" Yeah, wutever. So you two have been dating around ? " Linda asked.

" Not yet. Just met him once. Though can hardly bear to wait to meet this gorgeous hunk again. " Anita smiled. Her voice heavy with anticipation.

" Wanna get laid or something ? " Linda giggled.

" Heaven's sake, no. I mean first I'd have to know him better. " Anita muttered.

" From the snaps you sent, I guess he's a nice chick. And oh, boy, were the pictures gorgeous ! "

" He is gorgeous in real too. " Anita smiled.

" Excuse me, can you tell me where's trial room so that I could try this jeans ? " Linda asked one of the staff girls present there.

" Oh sure Ma'am, it's over there. "

" Thanks . "

" Hey what about your old Pakistani friend? " Anita's voice stopped her before she could walk further.

" You mean Kiran ?"

" Yeah baby, the gal who got the positions in our finals. "

" Well " Linda sighed. " We don't talk now. She left Florida an year ago. She now lives in New Jersey, so no news from her lately. Jeez, She's been so changed, you won't believe your eyes if you ever meet her now. "

" It's ridiculous. Silly she was, I mean ruining your whole life after one guy, you know what I mean. " Anita felt really bad for Kiran.

" Yeah the guy himself left States. He sure was one hell of a guy. Sort of a hard dish to eat. " Linda shivered, as she remembered the memorable arguement in their university.

" What does she do now ? "

" Don't know really, but someone told me, she now runs some Pakistani educational centre, a school sort of a thing and a welfare organization for her religion. "

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

" Dear wife, what's going on in here ? " Kisa smiled to herself as her husband's voice came to her from behind.

" Nothing much. Fixing dinner. " She shook the spoon in the fry pan, looking for the jar of red spice.
Sameer slowly came up behind her. Inside the kitchen, working so carelessly , she looked so " wife " to him that he was unable to stop himself. He buried his face in her soft fragrant tresses, inhaling deeply. He was breathing in life, not the fear of death, breathing in her special womanly scent combined with the fragrance of the fresh air.

He could feel all of his day-long tiredness washing off as soon as he put his face in her dark, frangrant hair.

" Ummmm. You know what, I want to marry you again. " He breathed in her ear. The sight of Kisa in the kitchen at the end of a long day, had knocked everything else from his mind.

Kisa's face had been with more than the heat of kitchen, her eyes too bright.

" Yes, to get a cook, who's always ready to prepare dinner, breakfast and lunch for you, right ? " She teased him.

" Hey.... " Slowly, he turned her to himself, holding her shoulders.

" You know something?" Sameer said thoughtfully, as he gently raised her chin up with his hand.

" I wanted a wife, not just a housekeeper, worker and cook. And you're a dream come true. " On his words, another slow blush colored Kisa's face. She found it most difficult to raise her eyes in front of him.

" You are my life, my greatest desire, my wildest dreams come true and my deepest love embodied. And your face a vision of loveliness and your eyes that touch my soul. "

She kept listening to him silently, congratulating herself for having such a wondeful husband. But then, remembering something, she raised her lashes, intent on telling him about some thing important. " Dear janaab.... "

" Hmmmm ? "