Chapter 24: 20| The Carnival

I made the girls clean my bed twice after they brought it to my attention that during my absence, all of them went to Ayan's home. It's not like I wasn't aware of their plan but still they shouldn't have gone without me, they knew about my periods hence they were cooperating with my mood swings.

I haven't heard from Ahad after that day, and I must admit that it didn't feel good. For the first time in a while, I was able to enjoy myself without any fear of PTSD because I knew Ahad was there to protect me.

I guess I'd meet Ahad today as it's our annual carnival, and I don't know how will I react? Are we dating or still friends?

"Hoor are you even listening?" Ayra snaps me out of my la-la land "yes I am, where were we again?".

We are huddled beside the bun kabab stall and striving to manage our sarees, yes, Maha takes the charge of setting our themes at every event. Last year, she opted for a chikankari kurti paired with a jeans and this time she insisted to go for sarees. Initially we all disagreed with her but Maha is known for her persuasive nature and at last, she won.

"You know that harmain uhh she's literally so annoying! That day we were having a debate session and she literally had no idea about what was going on yet sided with Zaid because she has a crush on him" Ayra flips her hair and annoyingly utters, harmain has literally left no chance to get under Ayra's skin just because she thinks Zaid gives all his attention to her.

"Oh she's nothing more than a pick me, remember the time she fell intentionally just to gain Zaid's attention" Maha rolls her eyes and continuous having her bun kabab.

"I mean I usually don't hate anyone but this harmain is really annoying like she cares about boys more than her grades which are getting lower day by day" Inaya spits while handling her pallu. Isn't this the story about every friends group? If one of the besties doesn't like anyone so we build a negative image about that as well.

"Uhh let's not spoil our mood talking about that harmain sharmain, we're here to enjoy the carnival girlss" I advise as this carnival is so beautiful to look at anything else and my girls.. huh they look straight out of poetry. This event is my second most favorite one out of all the events in Aurelian.

The carnival unfolds around us in vibrant chaos. The air is thick with the mingling scents of street food, while a kaleidoscope of colors from the stalls creates a dazzling backdrop. The sounds of laughter and chatter interweave with the melodies from various performers, making it a sensory feast. The bustling crowd moves with a collective energy, adding a lively rhythm to the carnival atmosphere. As we navigate through this vibrant scene, our sarees swish with each step, reflecting the playful and spirited essence of the festival.

✯✯✯✯

CARNIVAL AESTHETICS

HOORAIN'S SAREE

MAHA'S SAREE

INAYA'S SAREE

AYRA'S SAREE

✯✯✯✯

The former plan was to spend every second of this carnival with my girls but then, my moment was interrupted by my classmate calling me.

The girls were aggravated but understanding the gravity, they advised me to follow them.

Setting the pallu of my blue saaree, I make my way through the crowd, inhaling the pleasant scent of food stalls. Abruptly, I feel like someone is pulling my pallu. I turn back expecting my pallu caught up in someone's watch, but to my surprise, it's stuck on a protruding nail. I roll my eyes in exasperation, tugging at the fabric, which causes a small tear. Great, I think my saree is not in the best condition now. But Maha is pro at such things so it's not much of a problem for now.

I let the torn piece fall on the ground, resigning myself to the mishap. Just then, Ahad strides over, swiftly picking up the piece of the cloth. Without a word he wraps the piece around his veiny hand, tying it like he has been waiting for this moment.

He looks at me with a gleam in his eyes and a pleasant grin plastered on his lips, "ye mere hathon par bandha acha lagega Zameen par nahi Meri jaan"

(This would look good tied on my hand, not on the floor Meri jaan)

My breath pauses in my throat as I try to process his words and the way this navy blue kurta looks on him, he's the most captivating man I've ever seen walking on ground. Uff I should advise him to stop rolling his sleeves because his veiny hands will be the reason for my death.

Let's ignore the fact how my stomach performed summersaults after hearing Meri jaan from his mouth! Meeee!! I'm his jaaan!!!!

Despite the distance and the people moving between us, in this moment everything around us quiets down leaving the sound of unspoken. His eyes never leave mine like a language that only these orbs are aware of.

[Tera deedar hua, pehla sa Pyaar hua, pehli hi Baar hua is Dil ko]

A soft smile grazes his lips as he points towards my ear.

Hoor your jhumkas

My eyebrows furrows as I touch my right ear

what about my jhumkas Ahad?

He shakes his head slightly and chuckles silently.

Na baba I'm just teasing.

I pretend to have a scowl on my face and place both of my hands on my waist.

Are you teasing me Ahad?

He laughs and grabs his ears

Acha I'm sorry baba

[Na to inkaar hua, na hi ikraar hua,

Jaane Kya yaar hua, is Dil ko]

Crossing my hands over my chest, I watch him close the distance between us. I lack the knowledge that from where did I gain such boldness? I mean my entire life I've been hesitant to make any move but here I'm shamelessly having an eye contact rather eye conversation with a boy! I believe Maha's soul has teleported inside me.

He tilts his head slightly and shuts his eyes, inhaling something deeply "I missed this"

I don't require a mirror to shove it into my face that I'm a red blushing mess, "wh..what?" I manage to speak despite the stuttering state of mine. He opens his eyes and smiles "you... your eyes... your smile..your laugh..your scent... everything about you Hoor"

[Kay raatan lambiya, lambiya re..Kate Tere sangiya sangiya re]

I resist the urge to burry my face in his chest due to the way I'm getting shy right now. We're not even dating and he's already acting like the greenest flag.

"Uff stop being flirty all the time like talk about something else" I blurt out hoping to change the topic so that this mismatched red shade fades out from my face "and what else do you want to talk about?" He asks, pulling me into another confusing mystery.

"L...Ike mein kesi lag Rahi hoo?" This is the only thing that popped up in my mind and as soon as the words leave my mouth, I realize that I'm just accelerating the issues for myself.

(Like how am I looking?)

He places a hand on his chest, where his heart beats "Meri lag Rahi ho"

(You look like mine)

"I wasn't asking like that!!"

He chuckles and peer at me intently, he knows I'm being shy hence he's trying to tease me. Ahad Sikandar you're not succeeding in it.

With a pout on my face I set my saree and turn to leave him alone for I know, if I stayed longer then he'd continue teasing me. How can he find such mesmerizing words to define me? I'm just an ordinary shy girl with blue, big eyes, chubby face and childish bangs. While on the other hand, he's a deadly handsome man! Why would he want something to do with me?

My thoughts are corrupted by a gentle tug on my dupatta, uhh how many nails are there in this carnival? Turning back I realize that it's not the nail that pulled my dupatta but Ahad clutching it. His hand still has the piece of dupatta wrapped around it and it just adds to the reasons to why should I blush.

[Naina bare dagabaaz re..Naina..Naina..Naina *tune*]

"Ahad chordein Mera dupatta" I utter although my entire heart feels like melting at his gesture, and I don't want him to leave my dupatta.

(Ahad leave my dupatta)

"Chorne ke Liye thori pakra hai Ahad ki jaan" he grins, his hand still clutching my dupatta like he never wishes to let it go. I glare...or try to glare at him but this man has vowed to be shameless today that's why he continues grinning.... The same grin that's setting my heart on fire. For god sake, is this the same who stuttered while giving me cupcakes?

(I haven't grabbed it to leave it Ahad's jaan)

Thankfully, a dramatic shriek interrupts our moment and Ahad leaves my pallu like that. I'm not Ayan but I wish I had a camera to record his reaction. "Chord do anchal zamana Kya kahega?" Ayan Ansari tags along while patting Ahad's shoulder.

Ahad's face immediately switches into being the same stoic person, "is this the day I made you my best friend Ahad? I made sure khala doesn't know about your bike stunts and she's your jaan?" Ayan points towards me, accusing Ahad. Ahad is portraying no hint of emotion like he's accustomed to it.

Before he could've said anything, I jump out of nowhere gaining a fresh audacity. I pull Ahad behind me and stare deep into Ayan's eyes "so, why are you jealous?"

Ayan narrows his eyes and matches the intensity of my gaze "because you're stealing my soulmate"

Haww!! Soulmate? I haven't even Started dating him yet and this Ayan is his soulmate? No way! "How can you say that so confidently?" I'm under the rock of shock, the same Ayan who flirts with my best friend and calls me hoor darling also wants my man....shut up Hoor not your man.

"I know about his favorite food, favorite destination, favorite subject, favorite color and e.tc what do you know Hoor shoor?"

I make an O face and with a cheeky smile I announce, "I know his most favorite thing above all and that's me"

Ayan's faltering smirk tells me that I've won the debate for now, however the man behind me who was striving to maintain his personality is now a blushing mess.

"H..Hoor" he stammers while placing his hands on my shoulder. I cringe in embarrassment as I grasp what have I just said, to rectify the moment I slightly grip his collar and utter with mock anger "it's all your fault Ahad Sikandar"

Sparing no time to our situation I immediately attract long steps to leave this spot ASAP. Despite of trying to escape, I did hear their last conversation which goes like Ayan informs him "she isn't afraid of you"

I hope Ahad isn't offended on what questionable stunt I just pulled. But his reply comes like the first rays of sunlight "daregi bhi kyun? Hone waali biwi hai Meri"

(Why would she be afraid? She's my to be wife)

Ufff...hayeee... Ahad Sikandar take my life, take me.. he's so good with his words.

The next thing I recall is blushing and chuckling throughout the carnival until I reach the spot where my girls are.

Oh shit.

A kaand again?

Carnival is one of few events I'd forego my studies for. While I'm not someone who would stick their nose inside their books all day but still I can't achieve my motives without any efforts.

Ayan was so persuasive to join this event and he had his own ways to blackmail Rayan and Ahad. I had no better reasons to slide this day.

I remember when I was in first year, me and Ayan were really excited to join the carnival. But when we did, we couldn't contain our newfound thrill hence due to the intake of all the food present, we ended up getting food poisoned and bed bound for an entire week.

That carnival reminds me the splashing sound of orange juice that Ayra spilled on my shirt. In return, I splashed the chutney on her white kurti. I chuckle at the memory itself, she literally went on grabbing every pathetic liquid and attempted to mix all of them just to stain my outfit in the sec year carnival, but to her dismay, I escaped the event before she could've carried her stunt.

She's honestly the most insufferable person I've ever met with on the globe. "I wonder who'll...........

[Maula mere maula mere maula mere.....]

My words wander off before they reach my tongue, it's like a pole attracting my gaze with such might that I can't ever look away. It seems out of place yet the only suitable choice for now, why am I compelled to keep staring? This isn't appropriate then why can't I avert my gaze?

[Ankhein Teri.....Kay Inka ashik]

Ayra stands there, draped in a black saree, her laughter echoing like a melody in the quiet of the night. Her beauty weaves a spell that outshines the celestial stars, each glimmer on her garment reminiscent of rare seashells nestled in the ocean's depths. I've seen her countless times, yet now, for the first time, I behold her with eyes unclouded by animosity.

I have to remind myself, she's Ayra... I ain't supposed to stare at her... My heart shouldn't beat irregularly... I am not supposed to do anything which I am doing right now.

For god sake Zaid she's just wearing a saree grow up.

I avert my gaze and search for something that can grasp my attention however my efforts goes to vain as all I'm conscious about is her grey, siren eyes, black saree, cascading hair and bewitching laugh. Uhh stop looking at her Zaiddd!!

I despise her existense, I shouldn't be arguing with myself for not peering at her.

Despite my urge to pause the staring session, I find myself hopelessly looking at her like i'd rather be blind then to look at anything that's not her. I hate her.

Suddenly, a long cloth hindered the view and I feel an aggravated wave wash over me. Pushing the cloth aside a smile makes it way on my face as she pouts. Within a moment, her head spins in my direction and I immediately look elsewhere.

[Naino se naina takraye..najane kya dhoondhe akhiya]

Shit! I really hope with everything I have that she didn't catch me staring at her without a blink. I mentally face palm myslef for being such an idiot, of all the people I had to stare AYRA SHAIKH!

As I peek at her with a side eye, a lustful sigh escapes my lips. Hate her or not, she's appearing breathtaking today.

I feel a soft tug on the end of my kurta, peeing down I notice a small kid in shabby clothes asking me, "please give me some money"

His gaze travels between me and the lady I was gazing "ap baji ka sadqa utarde apko achi lagti hai"

(Ward off some money over her, you like her)

I should've rectified him but reluctantly my hand reaches out to my pocket and I fish my wallet. I hand all I've stored to this kid without any hesitation to ward off any sign of her catching an evil eye, well...she's looking beautuful... Usko nazar lag sakti hai.

(She can catch evil eyes)

But that's what the small child must think right?

[Kaise tujhe ye samjhaye...na jane kya dhoondhe akhiya]

I'm just intending to help this kid not the the other way round.

Shrugging off, I decide it's suitable to exit this place or else this wierd...extremely wierd thing will spread like cancer. But you know sometimes the universe has a really screwed up sense of humour. A cough escapes my mouth as I hear Ayra's devilish thoughts "let's just kidnap her and threaten her that's all"

Ok? Can we please click the button of undo? Because Ayra is not more than an unpredictable storm.

During the hours that we utilized to wait for Hoor, I sensed that this day can't go smooth like it is. I'm applying the squad's law on this situation, no problem can let us enjoy any event peace without making a special entry.

Maha's pale face and bitter laugh implies that the kaand marking our century is now in motion. "Ok what am I supposed to sort out now?" I blurt out, now no problem surprises me as our squad is accustomed to such problems.

"I mean to say Ayra..I swear I didn't mean to..." Maha stutters and this is enough to raise my alarms that something is really disturbing currently "jaldi karo kal subha panwel nikalna hai" Inaya places her arm on Maha's shoulder and refers to that meme while grinning, I'm hundred percent sure that same Inaya will be biting her nails after hearing her side.

"Imight'vesentrecordingtosomeoneishouldn'thave" Maha blabbers speaking as fast as she can.

Inaya grabs Maha by her neck and utters "musibat ka doosra Naam ho tum" Maha giggles while choking, "listen to me naa"

(You're the second name for problems)

"Yeah tell me what mess do I have to clean up this time" at this point, nothing surprises me. Our squad is practically the magnet for troubles, and I've always been their mother regarding this matter. I blame it to my elder child syndrome, tbh it's better to be born as a pet than an elder child. I only enjoy being a parent to these girls for they're the only one who makes me feel worthy.

As if smelling the air of our banter, Hoorain enters the squad chat with her nonchalant aura, she's someone who'll hear everything but at the end she won't even know what the problem is. "What did you guys do now?" She asks, her tone as light as possible.

"Correction what did Maha do now" I correct, my arms crossing over my chest and eyes narrowed at Maha. Maha is simply trying to surpress her laughter "ok when we were gossiping about harmain stalking her acc so I might've accidentally...ok guys focuse on the word accidentally...sent her the recording. And I again accidentally pressed delete for me rather than delete for everyone" she giggles looking at each one of us "that's it"

There is a moment of silence, all of us girls stare at Maha who nonchalantly smiles at each one of us. "You guys know right that I'm just a sweet little child. This is the last time I swear I won't do such things ever"

Okkk...I could've sorted this mess had it been someone else, but it's Harmain! That jealous girl will report that recording to discipline committee and they'll grasp a strict action against us.

"You did what!" I explode but before I can utter something else, our Ms cautious begins "oh shit shit shit my dad is going to kill me the burn this school for terminating me and then hunt harmain for even complaining"

"On the brighter side Harmain would be gone hehe" Hoorain utters while clapping her hands with Maha, oh god how come we four crazy girls survive in this world with this ratio of problems. At this rate we won't be able to finish our last year.

"Let's just apologize" Hoorain suggests while clutching the end of her torn pallu, Inaya frantically nods at her suggestion. "even better lets throw her phone"  hearing Maha's advice none of us could resist a chuckle "let's just kidnap her and threaten her that's all".

As soon as I pass my suggestions, a familiar cough courses through our conversation. I shut my eyes tightly, bracing for the inevitable roast that’s about to come. Great, just what we needed. Zaid. Mr. Perfect-Insults-Everything-I-Do is about to weigh in on the situation.

"You know, it’s truly remarkable how you always manage to come up with the most absurd ideas," Zaid drawls, leaning casually flaunting his black Kurta. "Kidnapping someone? Really? Crime Petrol ka episode chal raha hai Kya?" His dimples are so deep that they pop out while he's conversing.

(Is it a crime Petrol episode?)

I let out a groan, refusing to look at him. "If you’re here to insult me, Zaid, save it. We’ve got bigger problems."

"Oh, I’m not here to insult you," Zaid says with a smirk. "I’m just here to observe the chaos. You know, you could have avoided all this if you’d just used a little bit of common sense"

I shoot him a glare. "And how would you know what common sense looks like, Zaid? Last I checked, you lost yours somewhere between your oversized ego and your annoying attitude."

"I'm just insane" Zaid slowly mutters under his breath. But then, instead of firing back another snarky comment, he awkwardly looks away, as if avoiding eye contact with me like it’s some kind of plague. The shift is so obvious that everyone notices.

"Do Dil mil raehein hai magar chupke chupke" Maha sings out louder and Inaya who was preoccupied with her worrying ideas is now magically interested. Great, now she'll give me lectures about one of her book containing enemies to lovers (love and Zaid I'd die before that ever happens)

Before anyone can comment on this bizarre twist of events, Maha suddenly snaps her fingers, eyes lighting up with a brilliant—or perhaps completely insane—idea. "Wait a minute! Harmain has a huge crush on you, Zaid!"

"Oh, no, no, no," Zaid says immediately, backing away. "Whatever you’re thinking, the answer is no." But Maha is already on a roll, ignoring Zaid’s protests. "Yes! This is perfect! Zaid, you could flirt with her, distract her, and then somehow get her phone and delete the recording. It’s foolproof!"

But the girls aren’t giving up. "Come on, Zaid," Inaya pleads, her tone desperate. "Harmain practically melts every time you're around. You could easily distract her while we do the rest!"

"And just think of it as doing a good deed," Hoorain adds sweetly, trying to appeal to his better nature—or what little of it exists. "You’d be saving us from a disaster!"

As if this inconsiderate four eyed man will ever pay attention to help us, not when he knows that I'm the one in this group.

"I'll do it" Zaid utters clearly astonishing me, I spin my head at him with an intensity enough to break it "but on one condition"

"Ayra will do anything I say" scoundrel, he's literally pushing me down the alley. Wow Zaid Mirza you do know how to take benefit from any situation.

"Done" the girls yell in unison and I shake my head towards them. "C'mon Ayra Konsa Tumhe pahar torne ko kahega? Shareef lagta hai bechara" Maha pushes me forward.

(He won't ask you to move mountains. He seems like a gentleman)

"It's like a first step towards your etl" Inaya adds up. FYI etl refers to her enemies to lovers.

"Better than getting terminated" Hoor pushes me along Maha and they all run somewhere in the carnival.

I'm left with Zaid and the smirk I wish to wipe off.

๑⁠˙⁠❥⁠˙⁠๑

Zaid's scowl deepens as he marches toward Harmain with slow, calculated steps. His eyes don't leave mine, and I can't help but marvel at the irony. How is it that we can't stand each other, yet he's the one sorting out messes for me? It must be because he wants to burden me with the weight of his so-called favors, reminding me every chance he gets that I owe him.

He stops just behind Harmain, rolling his eyes at me. It's infuriating. I motion for him to move forward, but of course, he just stands there, acting like he's got all the time in the world.

Frustrated by his antics, I suddenly signal a flying punch in his direction. It's purely instinctive, a reaction to his irritating behavior. To my surprise—and slight satisfaction—he actually flinches, his eyes widening behind those nerdy glasses of his. He quickly adjusts them, trying to cover up his moment of panic, but I catch it. I never thought I'd see the day when I could make Zaid flinch.

Zaid recovers quickly, and without missing a beat, he flashes me an annoyed glare before plastering on the most insincere smile I've ever seen. He turns to face Harmain, who, predictably, is practically glowing with excitement at the sight of him. She has always been fond of Zaid and her idea I that Zaid and I have something going on. The thought of being with Zaid infuriates me, anyways focus Ayra that's not the point.

"Zaid! I didn't expect to see you here," Harmain gushes, her voice dripping with adoration. "What brings you by?" I narrow my eyes and srunch my nose, why the hell does she look like she's about to devour him!

Zaid clears his throat, his expression shifting into what I can only describe as 'charm mode.' He gives her one of his trademark smiles, the kind that makes deep dimples appear on both of his cheeks. I can almost hear Harmain swooning. I mean that's his asset, he can flash his smile and any girl will be flattered (not me).

"Hey, Harmain," Zaid says smoothly, his voice warm and inviting. "I was just passing by and thought I'd drop in. You know, see how you're doing."

Behind him, I start miming actions furiously, trying to convey a simple message: *Get. The. Phone.* I wave my hands around like a deranged windmill, pointing at my imaginary phone and then at him, hoping he'd catch on. Instead, he just glances over his shoulder at me, completely misunderstanding the situation.

"Uh Harmain...could..you like...get me phone or what?" Zaid blabbers giving me a muddled look.

I facepalm myself, exasperated. How can this man be a genius and a friend of a playboy? He doesn't know how to talk to a girl properly and here I am waving my hands in the air like an idiot.

I shake my head aggressively and dial a number on my palm explaining him to get her phone.

"Harmain," he calls over his shoulder, "did you know that we should use phones less because....it might spoil someone's beautiful eyes" He chuckles, and Harmain, bless her, actually laughs too, though I can tell she's a little confused. His sense of humor sucks.

I stare at him, dumbfounded. Zaid, are you seriously making this about some weird joke right now?

He shrugs, the grin still plastered on his face. Hey, just trying to keep things light. Plus, you were flapping around like a bird, Ayra.

"I was *not* flapping!" "And stop smiling like that! You're supposed to be getting her phone!"

Zaid sighs dramatically, as if I'm asking him to move mountains. Fine, fine. I'll get the phone. But you really should work on your communication skills, Ayra.

Meri bezzati Baad mein Karna chamkadar abhi apni ashika se baat karo

(Insult me sometime else for now speak with your lover)

I make a face at him as he turns back to Harmain, still grinning like he's the star of some romantic comedy. "So, Harmain," he begins, his tone as smooth as butter. "I was wondering if I could borrow your phone for a second. I need to check something really quickly."

Harmain's eyes light up at the request, and she eagerly hands over her phone. "Of course, Zaid! Anything you need."

He takes the phone with a grateful nod, his fingers moving swiftly over the screen. I can only hope he's deleting the recording and not doing something stupid, like adding his number to her contacts.

Meanwhile, I watch from a distance, biting my lip as I try to figure out what's happening. I see Zaid give a quick thumbs-up in my direction, and I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. He’s got this.

But then, just as I think we're in the clear, Zaid suddenly turns back to me with a perplexed expression, mouthing something I can't quite make out. I squint, trying to decipher his words.

He raises his voice a bit, clearly annoyed. Ayra, what's her passcode?

I slap my forehead again, groaning. How on earth would I know that, Zaid? Just ask her!

Zaid looks like he's about to protest, but instead, he turns back to Harmain with an awkward smile. "Uh, Harmain? I think I need your help here… What’s the passcode?”

Harmain looks slightly embarrassed, but she quickly steps forward and taps in the passcode herself. I watch in a mixture of horror and amusement as Zaid awkwardly tries to keep his cool, all while Harmain is practically hovering over him like an eager puppy.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, Zaid hands the phone back to Harmain with a charming smile. "All set! Thanks, Harmain. You're a lifesaver."

Harmain beams at him, clearly over the moon at having helped out. "Anything for you, Zaid!"

Zaid backs away, shooting me a triumphant look as he makes his way over. I give him a thumbs-up in return, relieved that the crisis is averted. But of course, this wouldn't be a typical day without one last mishap.

Harmain clutches her phone to her chest and blows like an air from there as if she received all the happiness of this world. Uhhh how can someone be this flattered in love?

Zaid smirks at me and rolls the sleeves of his black Kurta "so I finally helped you"

"Bara kaam kiya hai, medal du?" I shoot back with a sarcastic chuckle. It's like a reflex at this point, this grumpy, defensive attitude I can't seem to shake. Maybe it comes from growing up in a household where my feelings were always last in line. I’ve never really learned how to express myself without a touch of bitterness, without that edge of sarcasm that protects me from feeling too much. "Okay, thank you, bye," I add dismissively, turning to leave before he can get under my skin any further.

But as I start to walk away, I feel a sudden tug on my dupatta. I stop, surprised, and look back to see Zaid holding the end of it, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He's wrapped it around his hand, holding me in place with an audacity that both annoys and confuses me."Talk to me or stay like this, sweetheart," he says, his voice low and teasing, with just enough of a challenge to make my blood boil. The word "sweetheart" drips from his lips like honey, but I can feel the smirk behind it, the way he’s enjoying this little game.

"You're forgetting something Ayra" he utters while pulling me with the dupatta and I end up bumping into his strong chest.

[Falak tak chal Sath mere]

The carnival's vibrant energy buzzes around us—the air filled with the scent of roasted corn, the distant sound of a dhol beating in time with the laughter of children running past, and the colors of the stalls shining brightly in the fading light. Despite the festive surroundings, all I can focus on are Zaid's eyes, which seem to hold something deeper, something I can’t quite figure out."Why don't you leave me, Zaid?" I ask, my voice betraying the vulnerability I didn’t intend to show. It’s frustrating how he always manages to push me to this edge, where I find myself questioning not just his motives but my own reactions to him.

"I wish I knew why, Ayra," he replies, his tone unexpectedly soft as he carefully unties my pallu from his arm, letting the fabric fall back into place against my shoulder. His fingers brush against my skin for a brief moment, sending a shiver down my spine. I narrow my eyes at him, confused by his sudden change in demeanor. "Huh?" I mutter, caught off guard. What is he playing at now? Why does he always have to be so confusing, so infuriatingly cryptic?

He hesitates for a second before continuing, "I mean...you promised to give me something in return for my help."

I blink, trying to catch up with this sudden shift in the conversation. I can’t tell if he's being serious or just messing with me again. "What? What are you talking about?" I demand, rolling my eyes in exasperation.

Zaid lets out a small, amused laugh, clearly enjoying my confusion. "You owe me, remember?" he says, his smirk returning as he watches me. "So, I’ll make it easy for you. Grab me a kulfi."

I stare at him, incredulous. After all this—after the teasing, the constant banter, and the mind games—he wants a kulfi? I can’t decide if he’s being serious or just trying to find a new way to irritate me. "Seriously? A kulfi? That’s what you want?"

Zaid shrugs, a casual grin playing on his lips. "What can I say? I have simple tastes," he replies, as if this is the most normal request in the world. "Fine," I mutter, not in the mood to argue. If a kulfi is all it takes to get rid of him, then so be it. "But don't think this means we're even," I add quickly as I start walking toward the kulfi stall, making sure he knows that this isn’t some grand gesture of gratitude.

"Oh please Ayra my standards are way too high to be even with you"

Zaid falls into step beside me, the ease of his stride contrasting with the tension I feel. His kurta flutters slightly in the evening breeze, and I catch a glimpse of the deep dimples that form on his cheeks as he smiles. Despite myself, I can’t help but notice how perfectly he matches the energy of the carnival, his presence as familiar as the vibrant chaos around us. But he's Zaid- the same Zaid who focuses solely on bashing me down with his achievements, why is he being so considerate now? Why does he want to have a kulfi with me? Is it one of his games again?

We reach the kulfi stall, a simple setup with colorful, ice-cold treats displayed in a metal container. The vendor, an elderly man with a warm smile, greets us with a nod, clearly pleased to see young customers.

Even before I can ask him his preferences, he shamelessly utters while drawing in his surroundings "Two kulfis, please," I roll my eyes still doubting at the happening of this situation, Zaid being this pookie isn't a sight I had ever seen. The vendor hands us the kulfis—one pistachio and the other mango—wrapped in crinkling plastic.

"Here," I say, thrusting the pistachio kulfi toward him, wanting to get this over with. I avoid looking at him, focusing instead on unwrapping my own mango kulfi. But as soon as I start to take a bite, I notice Zaid watching me out of the corner of my eye, a mischievous glint in his gaze.

"Ummm so Zaid?" I continue "I was thinking.." but before I can finish my sentence his chuckle breaks it "Tum sochti bhi ho?"

(You do think?)

"Hasna tha?"

(Was I supposed to laugh?)

"Hasi pyari hai to haslo" he shrugs and continues having his kulfi, is this man for real? Did he really help me for a mere kulfi! I'm seriously going to  smash his hand.

(Sure if your laugh is pretty then go ahead)

I take a deep breath, trying to remind myself that I’m here because I made a deal with Zaid, not because I want to spend any more time with him than necessary. The thought of smashing his head, however, is becoming more tempting with each passing second.

I look down at the mango kulfi in my hand, trying to focus on the sweet, icy treat rather than the irritating presence beside me. Zaid, however, seems completely unbothered, enjoying his pistachio kulfi with a contented smile.

"So, Ayra" he says, breaking the silence "what were you thinking?"

"Nothing," I mutter, taking a small bite of my kulfi. "Nothing that concerns you."

"Must’ve been a first then," he teases, that familiar smirk playing on his lips.

I shoot him a glare, more annoyed by the fact that his teasing is getting to me. "Stop following me around."

He laughs, a sound that’s annoyingly pleasant. "Who’s following? We just happen to be walking in the same direction."

I roll my eyes, quickening my pace to put some distance between us. But Zaid matches my stride easily, his calm demeanor only serving to irritate me further.

As we weave through the crowd, my saree's pallu catches on something—a sharp tug that pulls me back abruptly. I stumble, clutching at my saree, but before I can regain my balance, Zaid's hand shoots out, wrapping around my waist. The sudden warmth of his hand against my bare skin sends a shock through me, my breath catching in my throat.

In that same instant, the world around us transforms. Roses and other vibrant flowers suddenly begin to rain down from above, creating a shower of petals that swirl around us like confetti. The sweet fragrance of the flowers fills the air, mingling with the festive scents of the carnival, creating a moment that feels like it belongs in a dream.

I startle at the sudden cascade of flowers, my heart leaping into my throat. I'm about to fall again, but Zaid’s grip on my waist tightens, pulling me securely against him. I gasp softly, my free hand instinctively clutching at his kurta for support.

We stand there, frozen in place, surrounded by a storm of petals. The colors of the flowers are vibrant against the dark fabric of our clothes, the reds, pinks, and yellows creating a surreal contrast. For a moment, all I can hear is the fluttering of the petals as they fall, and the rapid beating of my own heart.

Zaid stares down at me, his dark eyes locked onto mine with an intensity that makes me forget to breathe. There’s something in his gaze—something that feels too close, too intimate. His hand, still resting on my waist, is warm, steadying me, but also sending shivers through my entire body.

"Don’t wear black again," he murmurs, his voice low and almost… gentle.

I blink, completely thrown off by his words. "What?" I manage to whisper, my mind struggling to keep up with the sudden shift in his demeanor.

Before I can ask what he means, an older woman bustles over, clapping her hands together with a delighted smile. "Oh, what a beautiful sight! This was meant to be a lucky charm for the future couple!"

Zaid and I both turn to her in shock, our expressions mirroring each other’s horror.

"Couple?" I sputter, immediately pulling away from Zaid's grasp, my cheeks burning with embarrassment and outrage. "We’re not a couple!"

Zaid looks equally appalled, his usual composure cracking as he steps back. "No, we're definitely not!"

The woman’s smile doesn’t falter, her eyes twinkling as she nods knowingly. "Ah, but this charm doesn’t lie! The flowers only fall like this when true love is near."

"True love?" I repeat, my voice dripping with disbelief. "The only true thing between us is how ugly he is"

Zaid groans, rubbing the back of his neck as if he’s trying to shake off the whole situation. "Exactly I'm way out of her league"

"He doesn't have a league but again we're never becoming a couple" I finish for him, crossing my arms over my chest.

"Glad we agree. Mar na jaun is chudail Kay Sath couple banne se pehle" he mutters, clearly just as eager to end this conversation.

(It's better to die than to be a couple with this witch)

But of course, we can’t leave it at that. The tension that was momentarily softened by the absurdity of the situation quickly boils over into something more familiar—an argument.

"You know what’s ridiculous?” I snap, jabbing a finger in his direction. “The fact that you think you can tell me what to wear. Who do you think you are?"

Zaid scoffs, folding his arms as he glares at me. "I'm....umm....I was just saving you from embarrassment, you look..... ridiculous in that black saree"

"Nahi nahi Tum to Shahrukh Khan lag Rahe ho is kurte mein" I retort, my irritation rising, how dare he comment about my dress and act awkward! "You think you look good-"

"I don’t just think I look good" he interrupts, smirking again. "I know I do."

I open my mouth to argue, but the words catch in my throat. As much as I hate to admit it, he does look good in that kurta. But there’s no way I’m giving him the satisfaction of hearing that from me.

"Whatever," I mutter, turning on my heel to storm off. But as I move, the hem of my saree gets caught again, and I nearly trip. Pointing it down that I'm never wearing a saree ever again no matter how persistent Maha is.

Zaid is right behind me, his hand catching mine before I can fall. "Careful, sweetheart," he says, his tone laced with a teasing edge. "You don’t want to end up in my arms again, do you?"

I yank my hand back, glaring at him. "Stop calling me that!"

"What, sweetheart?" he grins, clearly enjoying the effect it has on me. "Does it bother you?"

"Yes, it does!" I snap, trying to ignore the way my heart skips a beat when he says it. Of course the heart skips beat because of disgust.

"Fine, fine," he raises his hands in mock surrender. "I'll stop… for now."

I huff in frustration, but before I can retort, the woman from earlier reappears, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she watches our exchange.

"Ah, young love," she sighs, clearly enjoying our squabble. "It’s always the ones who argue the most who end up together."

Zaid and I both groan simultaneously, glaring at her in unison. But this only seems to amuse her more. I gesture like I'm about to vomit while he casually rolls his eyes.

"Enjoy the festival" she winks at us and leaves.

The last carnivals where I and Zaid focused on splashing certain juices at eachother turned out better than this, at least I wasn't called out a perfect couple with someone I hate with all I have.

Before any of us say or do anything, Inaya rushes towards us "Ayra!" she pants, clearly out of breath, her eyes wide like she's trying to manage the fit of laughter "What happened?" Zaid asks, his usual teasing tone replaced with something more serious.

"It’s Ayan," she says, grabbing her stomach and laughing uncontrollably "Bhoot Bangla." "He… he fainted!"

Zaid and I exchange bewildered looks "he fainted in a haunted house?" I ask, trying to wrap my head around the idea.

“Yes!" Inaya exclaims, her pace of laughter escalates as she recalls the idea, "he went into Bhoot Bangla, all confident, but the second he saw the fake ghost… wo dharam se gir gaya"

Zaid snorts, clearly amused despite himself. "Yeah he's quite scared when it comes to such things...god I have to have a picture of this"

We arrive at the entrance of Bhoot Bangla, where a small crowd has gathered, mostly giggling girls who had clearly witnessed the grand collapse of the carnival’s heartthrob. I spot Ayan, sprawled out on a wooden bench near the entrance, his face pale as a sheet, while a few concerned bystanders try to fan him awake with paper plates.

This is surely going to be the craziest carnival ever in history.

(⁠๑⁠˙⁠❥⁠˙⁠๑⁠)

Hey guys I hope y'all are doing fine and well ❤️‍🩹

Yayay our book just crossed 15k views and I'm so so so happy for this.

This chapter contains 7k plus words so don't forget to tell me if I've justified the story or not.

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One more thing I'd like to ask y'all.

I've been getting a lot of requests to make Instagram handles for these characters, Soo...if anyone is interested in playing any characters don't forget to dm me on insta.

Just imagine, we'll be chatting in groups along this journey and some of y'all cosplaying as these characters. I really liked the idea but it's up to you🦋

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