Chapter 21: 17| The Date

HumraahWords: 33062

I myself am unaware of the reason for agreeing to hop at Ayan's place but I guess I'll blame it on his stubbornness and persuasive personality. Well it's worth a shot after all we're friends.

I clutch my books to my chest, hurrying towards the hostel. The day has been long, and all I want is a quiet evening with my girls.

As I turn the corner near the library, I nearly collide with someone familiar. I look up to find Ahad Bhai. His dark hair falls across his forehead and his eyes, matching his hair holds a hint of hope.

Of course he's here to interrogate about the situation with Hoorain as I'm playing cupid between both of them, I'm the biggest shipper of both of them and if they click, then they'll be my favourite couple, I've even named their couple as hashtag AHARA, this was too cute to slide.

"Hmm Ahad Bhai can't stay a single second without Hoor"

He looks down sheepishly, oh god he's blushing. "If that's so then no I can't stay a single breath without her"

I blink, momentarily speechless. This isn't the guy who is rumoured to break noses. "Cute Bhai cute" that's it, I'm getting Hoor with him by hook or crook that silly girl can never have anyone better than Ahad Bhai.

He chuckles and that's a sound I never expected from him, "so what now?"

Hoor will be thankful for me in future.

Ahad Bhai's eyes widenes as I drop the bombshell "you're going on a date with Hoorain. Tonight" I announce, trying to sound casual. He stumbles over his words, and for a moment I feel like he's about to bolt "What? Tonight? But-"

"Don't tell me you're afraid of our sweet, shy Hoor" this is a sight many of the students will pay to see, Ahad Sikandar who hasn't trembled once before landing a punch on anyone's face is stammering at the mention of my best friend's name. Oh god me when?

He runs a hand through his hair, his expressions a perfect balance of fright and fluster "I mean...we haven't even talked properly and directly a date"

I being the perfect matchmaker lean against the wall. "Ahad, my brother, with that fright you'll never have a chance with her. C'mon impress her and show her your softer side"

"But-" ahad protests and I raise an eyebrow, he surely thinks Hoorain will smash his head after listening about the date when that girl will hide herself in blanket being shy "no ifs and buts you're going tonight and that's it"

He sighs "fine but what If we run out of things to talk" uhhh I surely need to email him one of my books to gain some knowledge "just dress nicely not like a badboy and batein to khud hi ajati hai budhoo"

Inaya grins. "Chocolates. A whole box of them. Dark chocolate, preferably."

Ahad chuckles. "Deal. But what if she hates me?"

"Then you owe me two boxes of chocolates," Inaya says, waggling her finger. "And trust me, Ahad, this is your chance to rewrite the bad boy narrative."

As Ahad Bhai walks away, I watch him go, wondering if this unlikely date will lead to something more. Maybe, it's time for my best friend to wrap this badboy around her pinky finger. But there's one problem, the girls will kill me for arranging all of this without asking them but even they like bhai so the main problem will be Hoorain.

(⁠๑⁠˙⁠❥⁠˙⁠๑⁠)

I clutch the edge of my bedsheet, my heart doing a wild samba in my chest. The room feels too small, and my friends-my quirky, mismatched family-are all staring at me. Ayra, with her no-nonsense expression; Maha, bouncing on the bed like a caffeinated kangaroo; and Hoorain, the eternal optimist, her eyes twinkling. Although I'm unsure if the same twinkle will remain in her orbs if I spill what I did

"Okay guys don't freak out but Hoorain is going on a date with Ahad tonight" I blurt out earning a kaleidoscope of emotions from there, Ayra is annoyed but I can tell she doesn't object it while Maha is skeptical and Hoor........well....she looks like she's about to vomit.

"C'mon girls Ahad Bhai is the best"

Hoorain's eyes widen in sheer panic. "WHAT? No, no, no, no, no! I can't go on a date with Ahad! This is a disaster waiting to happen!"

Ayra crosses her arms, raising an eyebrow. "Are you serious, Naya? Hoorain and Ahad? Have you lost your mind? He's a badboy" well I know Ayra is concerned about her past condition, but Ahad Bhai loves her so much and he'd rather end his own life then to harm Hoor. Moreover, I'm the bestest of friends making sure my girls don't die single as I wish to wear lehengas on their weddings. After this I'll strive to convert her rival into her lover which is nearly impossible.

Maha stops bouncing, her eyes widening. "Wait, wait, wait. Girl this is so good like Ahad is definitely smitten for her, he looks at her like she's the first sunrise after decades of darkness"

I roll my eyes. "Exactly I'm trying to get her with someone amazing. Single hi Marna hai Kya sabko?"

Hoorain, pale as a ghost, shakes her head frantically. "Naya, you don't understand! I can't do this! I'll trip over my own feet, spill water everywhere, and probably set something on fire accidentally! No way, absolutely not!"

"Uhh stop being me" I say, trying to soothe her nerves. "Just give it a chance."

Ayra snorts. "Well he's pretty nice umm I guess a date isn't a bad idea but remember Hoor if he does one wrong move just call me and I'll deal with him"

Maha giggles. "He's ready to die then"

"Guys, focus!" I say, clapping my hands. "This is happening. Hoorain, you're going to look amazing. We'll help you get ready, right?"

Hoorain looks around wildly, like a trapped animal. "No, no! I can't do this! My heart feels like it's going to explode! I think I'm going to pass out. Ayra, help me!"

Ayra sighs. "Just give it a shot babe"

Maha claps her hands excitedly. "Makeover time! Let's turn Hoorain into a goddess."

Hoorain sits down, still hyperventilating. "Guys, seriously, what if I mess up? I've never been on a date and I don't know what to say? You guys are seriously doing my make-up when I'm clearly rejecting this offer!"

Ayra rolls her eyes but smirks. "Relax, Hoor. We'll be right here, ready to rescue you if you need us."

Maha starts pulling out makeup and accessories like a magician from her endless bag of tricks. Hoorain looks like she's regretting every life decision that led her to this moment, but she nods. "Okay... let's do this. But if I die, I want a really nice funeral."

As Maha curls Hoorain's hair, she grins. "Don't worry, Hoor. If Ahad messes up, we'll make him regret it."

Ayra smirks. "Yeah, we'll lock him in the storeroom with Zaid and set it on fire"

Hoorain laughs nervously. "Thanks, guys. I think."

An hour later, Hoorain looks stunning. Her hair falls in soft waves, her dress accentuates her natural beauty, and her makeup is flawless.

I step back, admiring our handwork. "You look amazing, Hoorain. Ahad won't know what hit him."

Maha bounces on her toes. "Bus Hoorain yaad rakhna Hume khala banne ki jldi hai "

Ayra shakes her head but smiles. "Good luck, Hoor. And remember, if it goes badly, we have sticks to beat him"

Hoorain takes a deep breath. "Kitne zaalim ho Tum log mujhe Apne ghar jaana hai"

"GO!" we scream in unison as she storms out of the room. As she heads out the door, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Ahad better not mess this up or else these girls will reconstruct my face.

If anything goes awry, I'm naming the worst character of my book after Inaya. Thankfully, the misconception I had about Ahad had already cleared out hence a day with him doesn't terrify me.

Inaya told me that Ahad awaits me downstairs, that escalates my anxiety. I've never been approached much less going on a date with one of the dreamy bachelors of Aurelian.

Doubt wraps me, pulling me back to the room but the image of girls halts my retreat. Alright, Hoorain perhaps this situation isn't as worse as it appears, I'll have to go on a date eventually why not now?

I feel like I'm living in 90s, a boy to whom I've never conversed properly and I'm always shy ahead of him. Then out of nowhere my best friends orchestrated a date for me! Seriously a direct date.

Adjusting my dress and ensuring that the bangs are right in place, I step outside the hostel.

Ahad Sikandar stands there, leaning against his lavish black bike-a vision that ignites fantasies. My breath hitches as I take in the sight: a white button-down shirt clings to his sculpted torso, sleeves rolled up to reveal veiny, powerful arms. Dark hair frames his face, and those eyes-oh, those dark, intense eyes-hold secrets I ache to unravel. Hoorain, you're dangerously close to shameless territory! It should be illegal to look this hot.

I gaze around to calm the effect he is having on me and take slow steps towards him. "Um..h..I..hey" for god sake Hoorain, stop stammering girl. Ahad offers me a warm smile that melts my heart- someone please turn off the heater- "Hoorain just be calm around me alright, I promise I won't do anything that goes against your comfort. Think of it as friends going on a day out ok?"

I nod but the inner turmoil within me mocks me, echoing the non existent yell in my ears that friends don't look him nor do they have this effect.

"You're looking breathtaking" I smile and return his compliment "you yourself look really handsome"

He chuckles, and I find myself leaning to the sound. Forgetting the awkwardness that usually accompanies me when I'm around him. Ahad leans down to match my height as I appear as a kid Infront of this tall man, I'm convinced that if he leans any closer, my knees would buckle.

But then he does something unexpected. From his pocket he produces his phone and passes it to me, I look at him with a muddled look "what can I do with your phone?"

"Well anything you want but for now check this thing"

I glance down to see a would you rather, it reads "would you rather on a candlelight dinner or a spontaneous road trip?" And many more questions similar to that.

My breath hitches. Ahad Sikandar, the enigma with stormy eyes, has researched what girls like. And he's tailored this simple game just for me. The options are both enticing, and I can't help but feel a blush creeping up my neck.

"Ahad" I whisper, my fingers brushing against the cool screen of his phone "this is beautiful"

"Umm I was tensed about what kind of day would you want so I searched for things girls like and developed this silly game to know what my girl likes"

I'm torn between the romantic allure and this game as it's not the choices that matters, it's that Ahad stayed to search about everything and developed this perfect moment to know what I like!!

"It's not silly.." I say, my voice barely audible "it's perfect and beautiful"

"Go on Hoor, decide how you wanna spend your day?"

After pressing every option that intrigues me, I hand his phone over to him but before I can completely do that, a notification pops up which seems like a reminder of a bike race tonight.

"You had a race tonight?" I knew ahad was a biker but the image of watching him race is far more exciting then a casual date. Can't fathom the knowledge that he was willing to compromise his beloved race because of me.

"I did but I'd rather spend every sec with you then anything else" I'm surely utilizing his dialogues into my books, this man knows how to flatter a woman.

"but what if I want to accompany you to this race?" Ahad puzzles up looking at me from head to toe being so excited for a bike race.

I've always portrayed myself as shy and innocent girl, who beholds no interest in anything beyond books and pen, but I was forced to be like this by my past I never wanted to be like this. However Ahad assures me the capability to be myself, that I'm safe with him.

"If that's what you want then I won't refuse Hoor" a wide smile tugs on the corners of my lips. "You know I'd trade my soul to maintain that smile"

Sparing me time to deal with this blush on my cheeks, he indulges to adjust his helmet, his eyes crinkling at the corner. "You sure about this Hoor?" his voice is gentle, as a reminder that he's with me "that place is quite chaotic and we'll find some problematic people there"

I glance at him and my reply surprises myself "I feel safe with you Ahad. You'd protect me right?"

"Till the end of the world Hoor" he chuckles, sending the shiver down my spine "well then" he extends the hand, and I take it "hold on tight Hoor". Gosh my name sounds so good when he says it.

He helps me with the helmet and then loads himself on the bike. I hesitate to encircle my arms around his waist but I wouldn't appreciate myself falling on the floor besides this bike seems to be extremely fast. My arms encircles his waist, his entire body tenses up and he gently flexes his shoulder.

"Are you uncomfortable? Should I part away?" I ask, placing in my mind the need of comfort he requires during driving. "No..no..stay like this it was just...... habitual"

The engine roars to life, vibrating through the bike and into my bones. I cling to him, heart pounding in sync with the revving motor. The wind whips around us, tugging at my hair and stealing my breath. His scent of wood and leather is intoxicating, I can't help but press closer, seeking refuge from the adrenaline-fueled rush.

"Ready?" he calls over his shoulder, his voice is low, gravelly, and it sends a thrill down my spine. I nod, unable to find my voice.

The acceleration pins me to his back, and I gasp, fingers digging into his shirt. The world blurs around us-green trees, blue sky, flashes of other racers. But all I see is him, the way his jaw clenches, the flex of his forearm as he shifts gears.

We lean into the curves, bodies moving as one. The wind tears at my cheeks, but I don't care. This is freedom, this is danger, this is everything. And he's right here with me, our hearts racing in tandem.

"Tell me if it feels fast" he shouts, and I nod again. The vibration of the bike, the heat of his body-it's intoxicating. "Should I slow down Hoor?"

I laugh, the sound lost in the wind. "No! I'm finally feeling adrenaline"

He glances at me, a pleasant grin curving his lips. "Enjoy your time ma'am I am there to catch you"

And suddenly, I'm not just holding on for dear life. I'm holding on because I want to, because I never want this ride to end. The track twists and turns, and I cling to him, heart soaring.

"You sure you'll win?" I ask, my voice softer now.

He shake my head "with you I can win a hundred times Hoor"

"Let's win this one for you" he murmurs, and I believe him. Because in this moment, with the wind still echoing in my ears, it feels like forever.

We arrive at the venue, the roar of the engine and the buzz of excitement fills the air. The crowd parts as we dismount, all eyes on Ahad. The flicker of fear and admiration in everyone's eyes conveys perfectly the reason of his badboy label. Disappointment passes their eyes as of they just realized that their chances of winning has reduced to zero, that their victory has plummeted.

As the gazes travels towards me, unknowingly I grab Ahad's biceps, the solid warmth of muscle grounds me, his eyes momentarily softens as he looks at me. Reluctantly, I retreat my hand but he halts my movement.

"Stay close Hoor" he whispers, his breath warm against my ear "are you uncomfortable?"

I give no reply and he doesn't inquire further, rather he stares at everyone there and gestures towards his eyes then points his finger downwards, the kind of motion which says 'keep your gaze down'

To my surprise, everyone single man there lowers their head immediately just after his gesture! Now I know why he's called badboy. "Is that all my Hoor wants?"

He should stop being this hot or else I'll crouch with this feeling inside my stomach.

He chuckles and softly ruffles my hair "AP blush karlein mein race Jeet kar ata hoo"

With a wink, he steps back and dones his helmet, transforming into the fierce competitive soul everyone here feared.

Ahad straddles his lavish bike, exuding an effortless magnetism that leaves me breathless. His first buttons are undone, giving a tantalizing glimpse of his muscular torso, while the rest of the buttons are struggling to contain his sculpted chest. His folded sleeves are folded revealing his extremely sinewy hands. I feel a flush of heat spread across my cheeks, my shyness giving a way at my intoxicating desire.

I rub a hand on my cheeks and gulp down, is it only me or bikers are extremely hot to handle? Oh god I'm not Maha to shamelessly ogle over men!

The signal blares, and the race begins. My eyes focuses on Ahad who propels forward with unmatched ferocity. He executes each stunt with flawless expertise, the bike becoming an extension of his body as he soars and jumps over. One of his hand gestures other bikers behind him to move forward, challenging them.

At one point, a cascade of water sprinkles over the bikers, but my focus remains on Ahad. His white shirt clinges to his shirt, the fabric becoming almost translucent. The sight of his defined muscles glistening under the dark night, sending a rush of adrenaline throughout me. He should be arrested to look this hot! The scene is too much to bear, the sight almost makes me weak at my knees.

Ahad saves his most breathtaking stunt for the climax of the race. In a move that leaves the audience gasping, he launches into the air, twisting with an artistry that defies gravity, and lands flawlessly, surging ahead to cross the finish line in a blaze of glory. The crowd erupts in a cacophony of cheers, their earlier doubts obliterated by his spectacular performance. My heart almost jump out of my chest to look at such stunt, this boy fears anything or not?!!!

Ahad crosses the finish line, victorious. As he dismounts and removes his helmet, he shakes his head sending the droplets of water flying. Tousling his hair in a way that enhances his allure.

People swarm around him, including the girls. I scowl at them hot larka dekha nahi aur ajatay hai. But his gaze remains on me and he asks everyone to make way for me.

As he reaches me, his eyes lock onto mine, the intensity of his gaze sending a shiver down my spine. "So did I impress you?" he murmurs, his voice a soft caress against the noise of the crowd.

You flattered me but I won't admit it, not now.

I can't help but smile back, my heart fluttering in my chest. "You were absolutely phenomenal over there" I whisper, my words barely audible over the din.

Ahad's hand finds mine, his touch warm and reassuring. "How would you like to continue this day?" he says, his thumb brushing gently over my knuckles.

"Umm me? I don't know whatever you say" internally I don't want it to end.

The crowd's adoration fades into the background as he chuckles, his hand coming up to tuck a stray strand of hair behind my ear. "Let's just say I don't want it to end yet but whatever you wish Hoor" he teases, his breath warm against my cheek.

"So let's continue and have something what say?"

I couldn't imagine a date better than this, the woman I love accompanied me to my race and is now clutching my muscles, while I ride us to a restaurant.

Isn't it weird how an electric rush courses through my body when she touches a length of my skin.

I'm in love with being in love with her if that makes sense, I love how her blue eyes glimmers, I love how her ash brown hair cascades, I love every reason she smiles for, and I'd protect her at every cost.

I've met eyes-uncountable yet, those blue eyes are those I wish to drown in. Her smile is my happiness and my joy is her.

My Hoor.

Immediately, she becomes rigid. I cast a backward glance to notice her stiffen, concern etches me and I gently halt my bike. "Hoor is everything fine?"

She purses her lips together and hesitantly nods "is there a restroom nearby?"

"We'll find one don't worry" I don't insist on knowing the reason as it can cause her discomfort, but the way her movements are halting I believe she's in pain.

Without wasting any second, I press the brakes upon reaching the restroom and she immediately runs to one.

I position my arms over my chest and prop myself against the bike. As I ponder to clear my confusion and the reason she felt this troubled, everything begin to add up.

As I join the dots, I realize that she's on her periods and that her cycle have come without warning.

Oh damn it! She'll be in pain and won't be having any necessities. In no time, I rush to gather all the essential items she'll require.

Thankfully, mom has never lacked in educating me on how to react in such situations, her belief was that men are supposed to be knowledgeable on how to make a woman feel protected.

With the items in hand, I approach the restroom, knock on the door and release a sigh "Hoor here are all the things that you'll need"

The door slightly opens, revealing a rigid Hoorain. She takes the items and softly shuts the door.

I sense that she's embarrassed of this unexpected situation but I wish to envelope her into my arms and assure her that there's nothing awkward rather it's my responsibility to pour everything in making her feel comfortable.

Within few minutes she appears while setting her dress, her blue eyes capturing a shade of bright ocean under the moonlight, I observe that she has tied her hair into a bun.

As she positions herself closer to me, maintaining her gaze lower "I'm sorry I bothered you for no reason" I know I shouldn't, but I feel like pulling her cheeks unable to resist her cuteness.

"Hoor look at me" she hesitantly glances at me and bites her lower lips "you have nothing to be sorry about baba, your comfort is my responsibility and I'd be dead if not the one taking care of you"

Her eyes widen slightly at my words, and she lets out a small, relieved smile. "Really? You mean that?"

"Of course," I reply, grinning. "It's the least I can do. You're feeling unwell, and I'm here to make it better, no matter what it takes."

Her eyes widenes and I can see the questions swirling her mind. Why was I being this attentive? Why was I caring? But I didn't give her a chance to voice them.

"Your cramps must be hurting I bought painkillers"

"Oh no no I don't eat painkillers, I know it's weird but I never use them"

"Okay wonder woman I happen to have a hot bag c'mon sit and I'll adjust it for you"

"But-"

"Hoor please don't be stubborn and let this man take care of you"

She hesitates but then nods, as we ride through the quiet streets, I steal glances of her relieved eyes as she presses the hot bag on her belly. I push the brakes when we reach the best fast food spot here, as Hoorain choose it on would you rather segment.

Previous Ahad would've mocked me for constructing such things within hours just because I wasn't sure about her idea of a date, but, he wasn't in love and I'm madly in love with her.

Upon reaching a vacant table, I drag a seat for her and she settles down carefully. "So what would you like to have ma'am?"

Her hesitants but smiles shortly after "anything?"

"Anything" I must appear as a lunatic, my face is supported by my hand and I'm grinning like an idiot while staring at her, gosh I can't even look anywhere else other than her.

She places her order and I try to initiate a conversation "what are your likes?"

"So," she begins, her voice soft but confident, "I'm actually working on a novel. It's a thriller, a revenge story with a twist."

I can’t help but be mesmerized by her, every syllable she utters captivating me. My eyes are fixed on her, trying not to blink, as if I might miss something important. I'm lost in the way her ocean blue eyes twinkles while she converses about her interest, I can listen to her talk about anything for days and never get bored of it.

She continues, "It's about two people who were once in love but ended up as enemies. There's a mystery to unravel, and I'm trying to keep the suspense high—like who really committed the crime."

I listen intently, hanging on every detail. My heart swells with pride and admiration. She's so passionate and creative, and it’s clear how much effort she’s putting into her work. The way her eyes light up when she talks about her book, how her voice carries the excitement and dedication—it's utterly enchanting. I'm genuinely curious that a girl so shy like Hoorain can pen down such a trope.

"You know I never assumed that you can opt for such a storyline"

She chuckle, and I close my eyes praying that this smile on her face never lasts. "Yeah, there are poems and poetries inside me but I guess I've nowhere to write so not everyone will know who I actually am?"

"My heart is all blank Hoor and you can write all your poems in there" I utter with genuine tone "I'm willing to listen each one of them even if takes a lifetime, I'll surrender my life to you"

Her cheeks turn a delicate shade of pink as she looks elsewhere with that enthralling smile, and I can’t help but chuckle softly at how endearing she looks. Before I can say anything else, our food arrives, and the waiter sets the plates down with a polite smile.

As the waiter leaves, she glances at the spread before us, her eyes widening in delight. "This looks amazing!" she exclaims, her excitement palpable. She takes a small bite of her dish and lets out a satisfied sigh. "I think this is the best thing I’ve had in ages." I watch her with amusement, unable to hide my smile. "I’m glad you like it. I was hoping it’d be as special as you are."

"I don’t need thanks," I say, reaching for a piece of my dish with a fork. "Just seeing you happy is enough."

"Do we split the bill?"

I chuckle "ma'am eat whatever you want, take some snaps if you want and finish. That's all"

She smiles but doesn't argue further, to be honest I have earned enough through my apps development that I can afford spoiling my girl.

As we finish our meal, the cozy atmosphere is interrupted by the sudden sound of a glass shattering and raised voices coming from the nearby tables. The argument among the boys escalates quickly, and Hoorain stiffens visibly, her eyes wide with fear. I notice her trembling slightly, and my heart aches at the sight.

Damn it, I wish to strangle those bastards who are arguing publicly, Hoorain has PTSD and even a little thing can trigger her trauma.

I immediately place my hand over hers, squeezing gently. "Hey, it’s okay. I’m right here," I say, trying to offer reassurance. But I can see the fear in her eyes, and it only deepens my concern.

After she told me about her PTSD, I spent my days restless gathering notes about it, the causes, symptoms and what to do while an episode of it is going on.

Without a second thought, I stand up and move around the table, pulling her gently into my arms. I hold her close, wrapping my arms around her protectively. Her head rests against my chest, and I can feel her breathing starting to steady as she clings to me. I stroke her hair soothingly, murmuring comforting words in her ear. "You’re safe. I won’t let anything happen to you."

She starts to calm down, her body gradually relaxing against mine. I keep holding her, creating a barrier between her and the chaos. My heart races, feeling an intense mix of protectiveness and love as I silently vow to shield her from anything that might hurt her.

When she finally looks up at me, her eyes are filled with a mix of relief and sadness. I gently wipe away a stray tear from her cheek. "Just focus on my heartbeat Hoor, that's where you live and you'll be safe".

She takes a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly. "I... I grew up in an abusive household. At first, things were good, but when my dad’s business started failing, he turned to alcohol. He would come home and take his frustration out on us. My mom... she couldn’t handle it, and she died from the stress while his cruelty continued for me. My aunt had to call the police to get him arrested, and I came here to Aurelian to escape that life."

I listen, my heart breaking for her. It takes every ounce of me not to rush to the jail right now and beat his father for daring to touch my girl.

She shakes her head, a tear sliding down her cheek. "I was bullied in school too. I guess... I just can’t handle violence. It brings back too many memories, too much pain."

I tighten my embrace, holding her closer. I can relate at least the bullying part for I've been a weak student and faced bullying for which I paid a huge price. "I’m so sorry you had to go through all of that. But you’re strong, and you don’t have to face any of this alone. I’m here for you, always."

Her eyes meet mine, and she offers a small, grateful smile. "Thank you. It means a lot to me."

"We’ll get through this together. You’re safe with me."

Her shoulders relax as she rests her head against my chest once more, the storm of her fears starting to fade away. We sit in silence for a moment, the noise from the argument now a distant echo, as I hold her close and offer her the comfort she so desperately needs. I wipe my own tears and silently vow to myself that I'd never let anyone near her who harms her, I'll always and forever protect this soul. She deserves way more.

(๑⁠˙⁠❥⁠˙⁠๑)

We step out onto the quiet street, the argument long forgotten as we head towards an ice cream stand. The night air is cool and refreshing, a stark contrast to the earlier tension. I buy us both ice cream, and we stroll down the sidewalk, the city lights twinkling around us.

We find a small, secluded spot where we can sit on the curb and enjoy our treat. As we dig into our ice cream, the calm of the night envelops us. I glance up at the moon, then at her, and I can’t help but smile.

"This is perfect," she says, her voice light and full of contentment. "I didn’t expect to end the night like this."

I take a bite of my ice cream, the sweetness mixing with the night air.

"Watching you like this is the best therapy"

She chuckles softly, her eyes sparkling as she looks at the moon. "The moon is beautiful isn't it?"

I nod, playfully shoving a spoonful of ice cream towards her. "Hmm well it was but not now when you're the view"

She laughs, her cheeks turning a rosy hue. "I never knew you could flirt like this"

I glance sideways at her, a grin spreading across my face. "I myself didn't but you know when I look at you, all I wanna be is somebody to you and these words are just facts nothing else"

As we continue eating, our conversation flows effortlessly. We talk about everything from favorite childhood memories to the quirks of the city. Each laugh, each shared glance feels like a precious moment.

"This is the perfect spot in the city, how did you find it?"

"Just during a bike ride it used to be a comfort spot giving a view of the entire city and the moon but now, it's our spot"

As we finish our ice cream, I stand up and offer her my hand, helping her to her feet. She takes it, her fingers still slightly sticky from the melting dessert.

"Do you have a tissue?" she asks, looking around.

I pat my pockets and glance around, then shrug. "I guess not."

She sighs softly, but before she can say anything else, I grin and say, "Aap meri shirt use karlein."

She looks at me, eyes wide. "What?"

I smile wider, a playful glint in my eye. "Eik shirt hi kharab hogi na, meri jaan ke haath to saaf hojayenge."

She blushes, her lips curving into a shy smile. "You're unbelievable," she says, but her tone is warm and appreciative.

Ahad Sikandar kharaab shirt lekar Pura shehar ghoom Sakta tha magar uski Hoor gande hath lekar nahi.

I hold out my sleeve, and she hesitates for a moment before gently wiping her hands on it. Her touch sends a pleasant shiver down my spine, and I can’t help but chuckle at the absurdity and sweetness of the moment.

"There," she says, handing my sleeve back to me, her cheeks still a lovely shade of pink. “Thank you.”

"Anytime," I reply with a wink. "Anything for you."

As we start walking again, I pull out a small plastic bag from my pocket and hand it to her. "Here, I got you some snacks. In case you get midnight cravings."

She looks at the bag, then up at me, her eyes shining with gratitude. "You thought of everything, didn’t you?"

I shrug modestly. "I just want to make sure you’re always happy."

She takes the bag and smiles, her expression filled with warmth. "Today was perfect," she says softly. "Thank you for everything."

I reach out and take her hand again, our fingers intertwining as we walk. "No, thank you. You’ve made today more special than I could have ever imagined."

We ride through the quiet streets, the city lights casting a gentle glow around us. Every breeze feels like a promise, every glance like a shared secret. As we leave, the world seems to fall away, leaving just the two of us, wrapped in the serenity of the night and the unspoken bond between us.

(⁠๑⁠˙⁠❥⁠˙⁠๑⁠)

Ok guys I hope y'all are doing fine and well.

Yeah I know that I scheduled to post this chapter later but I couldn't help containing my excitement. I really wanted to read all your views about Ahara's first date!!

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I hope y'all enjoyed today's chapter🦋