After last night's adventure, we all were petrified to step inside the institute. The notion of our letters handed over to us scared to death.
Thanks to the ongoing havoc of internships in our university, no one suspected us, splitting the credit between Ahad Bhai and our clean records.
Yeah, Ahad Bhai has technically won our girl's hearts and approval for Hoor as well. It was obvious that he's interested in her but he needs to burn the midnight oil in order to win her heart as she's afraid of badboys.
Every year Aurelian systemizes copious opportunities for the last year students; beneficial for their careers. Each student struggles for the slot in known firms and I've chosen the best out of them.
My joy knew no bound when I received their confirmation email, I remind myself that this is just the first step, I'll create history.
After slipping into my sleek formal attire and collecting best wishes from my besties, I hit the road to my destination
â¯â¯â¯â¯
AYRA'S OUTFIT
â¯â¯â¯â¯
Reaching the firm, my breath catches in my throat and nervousness creeps all over my skin giving rise to goosebumps. However, I will fake it till I make it, I'm Ayra shaikh and I'm all confident.
The name of the firm catches all my attention 'Mirza group of companies'. Here begins my dreams of having my own firm that outreaches it.
â¯â¯â¯â¯
FIRM AESTHETICS
â¯â¯â¯â¯
Taking a deep breath, I step through the sleek glass doors, instantly captivated by the modernity and efficiency of the place. The lobby is a blend of marble floors, high ceilings, and minimalist decor, radiating sophistication. Soft lighting casts a warm glow on the contemporary furniture, and the walls are adorned with digital displays showcasing the company's latest achievements and milestones.
I approach the reception desk, where a friendly yet efficient receptionist greets me. "Good morning. How can I assist you today?"
"I'm here for an internship. My name is Ayra," I reply, trying to keep my nerves in check.
"Of course, Ayra. You're here to meet Mr. Aariz, he examined your project and offered you the internship," she says, smiling as she checks her computer. "Please take the elevator to the 10th floor. He'll be waiting for you."
"Thank you," I say, heading towards the elevator, my heart pounding with anticipation. When the doors open on the 10th floor, I find myself in another beautifully designed area, with panoramic views of the cityscape.
A man in his late twenties, with a friendly demeanor, steps forward. "Ayra, welcome! I'm Aariz" he says warmly. He appears to be handsome and a welcoming man.
"Nice to meet you, Mr. Aariz," I reply, maintaining a professional tone.
"You can call me Aariz. No need to be so formal," he chuckles. "You seem a bit grumpy."
"I'm just focused," I reply curtly "and calling your intern grumpy is not professionalism"
He laughs. "I like that. You are confident as well. Anyway, I have to say, I'm really impressed by your submission idea."
"Thank you," I respond. "What do I have to do further?"
"Since it's not a long internship, we'll actually tour you around the firm and pay you for the idea. Also, the director of this company wishes to speak with you."
My eyes widen in surprise. "What? The Mr. Mirza?"
"Calm down, grumpy lady. The director is really friendly and welcoming. He appreciates youngsters with such brilliant ideas and he just wants to hear about your ideas from you."
"What will I have to do?" I ask, still processing the information.
"Unfortunately, he's not here right now. But you would have to go to their SADAQA office in the mansion."
I narrow my eyes in suspicion. "This may be a scam or what?"
He laughs again. "Don't put pressure on your mind, lady. The firm is well known; we won't scam you."
I nod, though I'm still slightly skeptical. I know karate, so hopefully nothing will happen.
"You'll be fine," he reassures, laughing. "I'll look forward to seeing you around Ms grumpy Ayra"
And I'll look forward to seeing you never.
With a mix of excitement and wariness, I prepare to move to the SADAQA office.
I'm not aspiring to be a lawyer but I find it difficult to trust others quickly, more like I analyze every scenario with an eagle's eyes.
As I sit in the car my phone vibrates signaling a message, as I push open the GC everyone is furious about me visiting their mansion. Yeah I did message them immediately, besties before anything.
Maha:
I'm still on my mission to convince
that rhino!
Hoorain:
And I'm just done with submitting
my manuscript, hope it goes well:â -â )
Inaya:
Shut up you both! Here Ayra is called
in some strange mansion who the hell
names the mansion 'sadaqa'
Maha:
How about we join you! And let's beat that oldie if he tries anything >â .â <
Me:
He'd be dead before laying a finger on me.
Inaya:
That's my girl
Hoorain:
How crazy we all are! Blaming an old man, that may actually be nice.
Maha:
What's life without craze! Besides Ayra dear I'm still on for that beating scene don't forget me.
Me:
Ok ok y'all I've reached the mansion and this driver kinda sus byee!
Tucking my phone back in my pocket, I giggle wondering how worried these girls would be for me, I'm sure they have prepared knives and pepper spray, waiting for my single call.
I arrive at the address Aariz provided, only to find myself standing before a magnificent mansion.
The sheer grandeur of the Sadaqa Mansion leaves my jaw practically on the floor.
The sprawling estate is a testament to opulence and elegance, with its pristine lawns, ornate fountains, and meticulously manicured gardens.
The mansion itself is a blend of classic and contemporary architecture, its facade adorned with intricate carvings and vast windows that shimmer in the sunlight.
As I approach the entrance, a uniformed guard steps forward. "Good afternoon, miss. How can I assist you?"
"I'm Ayra. I have an appointment," I reply, still taking in the breathtaking surroundings.
The guard consults his list and nods. "Welcome, Ms. Ayra. Please proceed."
He opens the gate, and I step through, walking up the long, marble-paved driveway.
The closer I get, the more details I notice-the polished marble columns, the grand staircase leading up to the entrance, and the ornate chandeliers visible through the large windows.
Once inside, I find myself in a vast foyer with a soaring ceiling and a sweeping staircase.
The interior is even more impressive than the exterior, with luxurious furnishings, intricate artwork, and a general air of refinement. Every corner of the mansion speaks of affluence and meticulous attention to detail.
In so absorbed in observing my surroundings that I failed to observe a tingling sensation in my feet. Gazing down I see a fluffy, cute white dog playing with my heels.
My heart blooms with the love I have for animals, I crouch down its level and pat him with my hands. "Aww you're so cute"
He jumps in my arms and I couldn't feel more beloved. "Ma'am you must be really special because sir Zoro is not so friendly"
"He must've sensed that I love pets" after snuggling with him for a few seconds, he runs somewhere "I'm Ayra shaikh could you please tell me where I can find Mr. Mirza?"
"Yes ma'am, you can move to the east wing and the first room on the right is the business room""
With that this old man rushes after cute Zoro, his master must be really protective of him that he instructed everyone to address him as sir. Where am I supposed to find the east wing? I can get lost in this huge mansion.
Regulating my breath, I evaluate my route towards the east wing.
â¯â¯â¯â¯
ZORO
â¯â¯â¯â¯
Upon arriving at the location that should be east wing. I knock at the door several times and thought of entering this room when I received no response. Releasing a sigh I make my way into this room.
The room doesn't seem like a business place by any angle rather it's resembling a place any person fond of the dark aesthetic would choose. A cozy warm aura and all tidy, perfect for long study sessions.
â¯â¯â¯â¯
BEDROOM
â¯â¯â¯â¯
Realizing that this may be someone else's sanctuary, I turn to leave but bump into someone's naked torso.
I position my hands between us to maintain distance, as I gaze I'm stunned to see the person ahead of me.
The universe surely has some serious issues with me or it has a screwed sense of humour. If there was an award for being the most cursed person on earth then I'm gladly accepting a Nobel prize for it. I departed for an internship, how the hell did I end up in Zaid mirza's room and he's naked!
Shit! Everything starts making sense now! He is the son of Haris Mirza, the heir of the Mirza group of industries! I was so foolish to neglect these hints and apply for the damn company.
Droplets of water still cling to his chiseled muscles. Thank goodness he's wearing his pants, his eyes widenes in disbelief. His muscular torso glistens under the dim light, and for a moment, just a fleeting moment, I am rendered speechless.
â¯â¯â¯â¯
ZAID AND AYRA'S ENCOUNTER
â¯â¯â¯â¯
"WHAT THE FUCK AYRA!" he yells pushing himself further away from me "what the hell are you doing in my room! My home!?" He interrogates while grabbing his glasses from the side table.
I behold no explanation right now, he's surely going to kill me but that doesn't mean I'd let it slide "at least get your shirt on or I'll throw up by the ugliness"
He clenches his teeth and walks closer to me and in a flashing movement he pins me against the wall "I'm serious Ayra. Why are you here?"
He has some strange obsession with pinning me against the wall.
"I'm not answerable to you and back off"
"Make me" do you get deja Vu? I really wish to murder Zaid in his own room, chop him into pieces and scatter those so that no one can find them.
"I swear I'm going to-"
"Going to what?" He leans in closer, his breath brushing against my ear "tell me Ayra, what are you going to do?"
"You think you're intimidating after all this? When in reality you suck Zaid" I groan, pushing him harder against his chest.
He chuckles deeply and presses even closer, his body pinning me against the wall. "I thought I was intimidating when your jaw dropped after seeing my bare torso" his voice dangerously low.
"Back off right now!" I command and to my surprise he uncaged me and plays a smirk on his lips "now tell me your reason of being here"
"I'm here for the internship, to meet your father" he nods sipping water as if he already had an idea that I was going to apply for it "you're not doing any internship? Because of your Mirza title?" I smirk savagely but again he chuckles in response.
"Keep using your little brain" he flicks my temple slightly, when will this bastard wear his shirt! "I'm technically doing an online internship with a firm in London, they liked my idea and I sold it for a great amount of dollars"
Normally, Zaid would never share any of his dark actions but he's distributing his achievements just to make me envy him "but that internship wasn't offered by Aurelian"
"No it wasn't" he says while grinning "but Ms academic worm, remember this rule that you have to hunt for your own opportunities and think out of the box. I do what others can dream of doing"
All the hate of this world on one side and still it would be negligible as compared to my hate for this person. I hate how correct he is. I hate how perfect he is. I hate him for ruining my life, for taking away every appreciation that I worked hard for.
"I swear Zaid Mirza, I'll make you eat back that ego and remember my words, I'll get the power you yearn for"
There's a knock on the door. Zaid's grin fades as he hurriedly pushes me into the wardrobe, hiding me from view. I peek through the slightly open door and see a beautiful girl standing there.
As Zaid opens the door, still shirtless, the girl smiles and greets him warmly. "Ayzal, my irritating cousin" he says playfully. (Ayzal Ansari is Ayan's sister)
"Wear a shirt four eyes" she exclaims In a low, pleasant voice.
He never acts so sweet with me? I don't want him to, ye Fursat se kahin marjaye. (He can die somewhere)
Zaid chuckles, pulling on his shirt. "Ayzal, what brings you here?"
As they chat, I try to make myself as inconspicuous as possible. But just as I think I'm in the clear, Zaid grabs me and pulls me out of the wardrobe, startling me."What are you doing?" I demand, trying to wriggle free. "Let me go and meet Mr. Mirza."
"You are with Mr. Mirza right now," he says, his tone firm. He slips into a plain black tshirt and dries his hair.
"I can't let anyone see me with a girl sneaking around my room. My reputation will be ruined."
"I didn't know you had a reputation" I savagely retort. He opens the door of his room and maybe he's about to guide me to that business room.
"Just because you don't have any doesn't mean no one will have it sweetheart" ahh Zaid Mirza's death is written by my hands. We walk through the sleek hallways and surely this man was born with a golden spoon in his mouth. "You're damn annoying"
"I wasn't annoying when I was naked Ayra. Your blush said something else"
"You're so desperate for me ogle over you"
He parts his lips to retort but as someone passes by, Zaid quickly opens the door to a nearby room and ushers me inside. What the hell is wrong with him! I'm not here for nefarious purposes, I've been invited here for my internship. Why is he acting weirdly? Not like I would ever try to sneak with him.
He sighs of relief and flicks open the light of this cinema looking room.
I flinch and nearly yell with shock as I spot Ahad kneeling down and treating Hoorain's feet.
"What the hell" I and Zaid utter in unison. Hoorain's colors fade as she looks at me and clearly she needs to give all of us an explanation for this.
"What are you both doing here"
"Ahad lives here" Zaid replies
Before I can process anything Ayan, enters the room with popcorn in hand, ready to watch a film. But as he sees the scene before him, he drops the popcorn. How many shocks am I supposed to get in a single day. Do all the students of Aurelian reside here?
Reading my expressions Zaid answers "he also lives here"
"Ayra, Zaid, Ahad, Hoorain," he says, pointing at each of us in turn. "What is this, a sitcom? You guys should've booked a room!"
Seriously book a room with ZAID? I want him 1000 feet away from me.
Zaid rolls his eyes, trying to maintain his composure. "Ayan, it's not what you think," he starts, but Ayan cuts him off with a wave of his hand.
"I should've brought popcorn for this show," he says, pretending to search his pockets. "Oh wait, I did!" He pulls out another bag of popcorn and starts munching on it, making exaggerated chewing noises "hashtag missing my Hazel"
"But I think I'll leave you guys to your... whatever this is." He turns to leave, then pauses, looking back at us. "Oh, and guys, next time you're sneaking around, maybe lock the door properly. Girls make yourselves at home and guys, khalas will beat your asses especially you good boy Zaid"
I fiercely gaze at Hoorain but she seems mortified while Ahad is stern and confident as always.
I've always been a fragile, panicked girl, I've never voiced my opposition to the unfair treatment I've faced.
But I transformed my pen into my weapon, my words behold the power to shape this world, to nurture those girls' minds that they aren't weak.
Due to my love for books, I've always desired to be an author.
Following the regulations of our internship program, I applied for a well-known publishing company and surprisingly they selected me.
When I submitted the prompt of my book to them, everyone appreciated my idea and offered to publish my book after my graduation.
My joy was infinite, getting published by my dream publishers is everything I can ask for.
After my successful day I'm standing at the street side, waiting for my cab.
A peek at my watch informs me that the cab is running late.
I sense some menacing glances towards me, travelling those gaze I witness a gang of sleazy boys ogling me, mobile phone positioned in a way that seems they're capturing me.
I wish I was strong as Ayra to break their nose right here, but I'm Hoorain - the weak and scared girl. I shift my focus on something else at least not these unwelcoming stares.
The coastly roar of a motorbike captures my attention, I spot a well built man riding this lavish motorbike cladding a helmet. You know they are honest when they declare that book girls are fascinated by biker boys, I'm weak for them as well.
The bike seizes with a premium buzz, damn it looks so hot. With the helmet off, I see a recognizable face. Wat a minute!! Ahad Sikandar is a biker? For god sake I was just ogling over him.
His gaze meets mine as he unloads himself from the bike and leans against it.
His eyes relaxes and he delicately raises his eyebrow while his hands are pocketed.
Do you need anything?
Rubbing my hands on my arms I give a slight shake to my head.
Nope, everything is totally fine.
I can't believe I'm communicating with the person I was really scared of and that too with eyes. How can I understand what he wants to utter? Through his eyes and movements.
He frowns and presses his lips together
I know you're lying Hoorain, tell me what's wrong?
I peer at those boys still capturing me Explaining everything about the scenario
His face turns dangerously stoic
Allow me to remind them their limits
I shake my head in denial. I'm terrified by the sounds of screams, by the image of punches and kicks. Growing up in an abusive household where I'm crouching down underneath a table while my parents are indulged in violence has made me scared by the word violence itself.
My fear of violence is also because of the bullying I've faced my entire life just because of being an outcast in my school. And especially that incident.
Ahad raises his eyebrows and motions his hand conveying me to calm down.
I promise Hoorain, I won't use violence
I nod in approval and turn my position with hands on my ears, images of dark night, closed door, breakage of glass flashing through my mind. The next moment I recall is Ahad handing the phones over to me "delete the photos Hoorain" he says in a soft voice and an assuring nod. Ahad was the last person I imagined to seek assurance from but here I am.
All the goons kneels before me as Ahad stands firmly beside.
"We're really sorry ma'am" they all utter with a trembling voice and hands. I glance at Ahad who stands right beside me with a smirk "go on Hoorain, do whatever you want to"
"I can't" I ask with moisture tricking my eyes "you can. You're way more powerful than you know Hoorain, you just need to realize it" he says and motions me to take my justice from them.
"I'll forgive them"
He nods without questioning and asks them to get out.
"Thankyou so much Ahad"
"No need to thank me, you'll always find me by your side" I couldn't have pictured more beautiful day then this, turns out Ahad isn't that cruel like I assumed him to be.
"How did you understand what I was saying?" I know I shouldn't have asked such question but I can't help it.
He grins getting flushed "mein apki khamoshi parhloonga agar ap chup Rahi to"
(I'll read your silence if you remain quiet) he replies, his words a testament to his understanding and empathy. I try to move away, my heart feeling lighter than it has in ages. But as I take a step, I trip over a small rock, my ankle twisting painfully. I wince, clutching my foot, the sudden pain shooting through me. Oh god can this get more embarrassing.
Ahad is by my side in an instant, concern etched on his features. "Are you okay? Let me help you," he says, reaching out to take my hand.
I hesitate, unsure of his intentions, but his genuine concern shines through, easing my fears. "No, no, I'll go by myself," I insist, attempting to stand up despite the pain.
"Hoorain, you can't even stand," he protests, his voice laced with worry. "I can drop you"
"No Ahad honestly, it's fine" how can I move with a complete stranger? although I was romanticizing him but still. "I'll drop you at hostel"
Every one of us girls are on internship, I had to join Maha but turns out it isn't possible now.
"I totally understand Hoorain, you can trust me. I have sisters in my house and they can help you with this"
I find the suggestion strange, but his kindness has already surprised me once today.
He helps me onto his bike, ensuring I'm comfortable and safe. He takes off his helmet and gently slides it onto my head, making sure it fits properly. His actions speak volumes, portraying him as a true gentleman, a beacon of kindness and compassion.
As he starts the bike and we ride towards his mansion, I can't help but marvel at the unexpected turn of events. Despite my initial assumptions, Ahad has shown me that there is more to him than what meets the eye.
We arrive at Ahad's mansion, and I am taken aback by the sheer grandeur of it. The sprawling estate, with its immaculate lawns and towering structure, looks like something straight out of a fairytale. I gape at it in awe. "Are you Bill Gates' son?" I ask, unable to hide my amazement. Ahad chuckles, the sound warm and endearing. "Not quite, but thanks for the compliment," he says, helping me off the bike. My foot touches the ground, and pain shoots up my leg, making it difficult to stand.
Noticing my struggle, Ahad doesn't hesitate. "I'm sorry for this, but you're in pain," he says, scooping me up in his arms with surprising ease. I'm too stunned to protest as he carries me into the mansion.
We enter the mansion, and two girls approach us with curious expressions.
"That's Zahra and she's Zainab. They are Zaid's sisters" oh, so Zaid lives here, are they cousins?
They look at me, then at Ahad, eyebrows raised in unison. "Who's she?" Zahra asks, her tone teasing. Ahad, still carrying me, replies, "she is Hoorain. She injured her foot."
With a suspicious grin they both peer at Ahad "oh I see injured her foot Bhai" zahira exclaims and Zainab follows her "of course Bhai"
"You're most welcome here Hoor, Bhai, all of the wings are suspicious as khalas are roaming so take her to theatre room"
What does she mean by suspicious?
Ahad agrees without hesitation, carrying me through the elegant corridors until we reach a lavish theatre room. He gently sets me down on a plush seat, kneeling before me to examine my injured foot. "May I?" he asks softly, looking up at me for permission.
I nod, feeling a strange mix of embarrassment and gratitude. He carefully removes my shoe, his touch gentle and soothing. He starts treating my foot, his concentration intense. The pain begins to subside under his attentive care.
Suddenly, the door bursts open, and Ayra and Zaid storm into the room. "What the fuck" they yell in unison, their faces a mix of shock and confusion.
I'm dead! Ayra is going to kill me for all this!
Just as I thought I couldn't get more shocked, Ayan bursts in with popcorn in his hand and playful remarks from his mouth.
Does the entire Aurelian live here?
Ayan leaves, us 4 alone. I'm counting my days back while Ahad stands there as if nothing happened.
Ahad looks up, his calm demeanor unwavering. "She hurt her foot. I'm just helping her," he explains simply, his hands still gently cradling my ankle. Ayra's eyes soften as she takes in the scene, while Zaid looks between us, his expression torn between concern and something else. The tension in the room is palpable, but Ahad remains focused, his presence a steady anchor in the midst of the chaos.
After my feet is able to walk and Ayra gets done with her meeting with that old Mirza. We both take our leave for the hostel
"You're explaining everything Hoorain Shah"
I'm in a deep problem, not like I was ever going to hide anything from them but there's a difference between telling and getting caught.
Y'all are asked to pray for me and if something happens to me don't forget to share what kind of biryani would you prefer at my funeral?
à¹â Ëâ â¥â Ëâ à¹
Hey everyone I hope y'all are doing fine and well.
I sincerely hope that you're enjoying the book.
I'm grateful to each single vote that you cast for this book.
I would appreciate it if you guys comment your thoughts as well, I love reading your comments and it motivates me as well.
Follow us on Instagram for spoilers and cute edits @Fictiontalesink