Yesterday we all slept without keeping in mind the consequences our warden will push upon us, but now, all of us are positioned in a row praying for our future as the dean rubs his forehead.
Yup.
The first thing in the morning done by our lady virus was to report it directly to the DEAN of university "that these girls are out of their limits" along with our pictures climbing the wall.
Internal secret that the pictures turned out better than what I had imagined, we look gorgeous.
Focus Maha! You're on the verge of getting suspended! I'm that friend of a group who would concentrate the most on controlling their laugh even in front of the principal, but in an attempt to do that my mind would replay all the hilarious thoughts making it even harder.
Inaya is overthinking and she must've reached the point of her suicide by now, Hoorain is confused and Ayra is cursing the warden mentally as the warden prays for our suspension letters outside.
"I can't imagine that such brilliant students like you would indulge into a pathetic activity like sneaking out", he expresses his disappointment as if we're slightly ashamed. "Do you know how unethical it is?"
I nudge Ayra with my elbow and whisper, "I didn't know we were brilliant?"
"Shut up, Maha," she mutters, but there's a twitch of a smile on her lips.
The dean continues, clearly rehearsing his disappointed-dad monologue. "You violated the rules of this institution. Rules that are in place for your safety. What was so important that four of you felt the need to sneak out of the hostel in the middle of the night?"
Ayra raises an eyebrow. "Uh, personal growth?"
I cough to hide my laugh, but it just makes the dean glare at me. But honestly what possibly personal growth we had in a club where he was.
Ofcourse Inaya has to drop in with her sensible mind. "Sir, we're really sorry. It won't happen again. Please don't suspend us. We're very dedicated students."
I glance at Ayra, who rolls her eyes. Clearly, she's not buying the apology route.
The dean sighs dramatically, like he's auditioning for a soap opera. "I appreciate your remorse, but rules are rules. You girls have violated them, and there must be consequences, you all will be suspended."
And that's when Ayra steps in, her sass dialed up to maximum. "With all due respect, sir, consequences should be fair, right? Like, say, suspension for us and maybe... something else for certain people who also violate rules."
The dean narrows his eyes. "What are you implying, young lady?"
Ayra smiles sweetly, the kind of smile that means trouble. She pulls out her phone and shows him a clip. Not just any clipâthe clip.
I knew that our road to graduation would be filled with unpredictable activities but blackmailing the dean of the University was something not my ancestors would've thought. Proud of you my girl.
Without any thought I step forward and place my hand on Ayra's shoulders.
There he is, our esteemed dean, at some random nightclub, dancing with a girl half his age, holding a drink in one hand and what looks like a wig in the other. At least we got something useful last night.
Hoorain gasps. "Ayra!"
Inaya covers her face with both hands. "Oh my God, we're going to die."
I, however, am struggling to contain my excitement. "Ayra, you genius," I whisper. Although I was the one to capture the picture but blackmailing and all is Ayra's department. Now either we'll be kicked out of the University or we'll be sent out respectfully.
The dean's face drains of all color as he stares at the screen. "Where... where did you get that? Were you...did you girls sneak into that club last night?"
"Oh apologies sir" I chime in, grinning. "But would it matter if your dear wife gets to know her husband is drinking with a girl half his age?"
"Blackmailing a dean. Fantastic," Inaya mutters under her breath.
"We're not blackmailing," Ayra says, feigning innocence. "We're just negotiating a deal no sir?"
The dean shifts uncomfortably in his chair. "This is completely inappropriateâ"
"What's inappropriate, sir?" Ayra cuts him off. "You dancing at a club or us sharing this picture with your wife?"
Inaya grabs my arm, whispering frantically, "We're going to jail. Forget suspension, we're going straight to jail."
Meanwhile, Hoorain looks like she wants to evaporate into thin air.
The dean glares at us. "You wouldn't dare."
I step forward, holding up my phone. "Oh, we dare, sir. In fact, I think your wife would love to see how well you balance work and personal life."
Hoorain finally speaks up, her voice small. "Maha, please stop."
"Or," Ayra says, ignoring Hoorain, "you could just let this slide. We'll go back to being the brilliant students you praised earlier, and this little... misunderstanding never has to leave this room."
The dean's face drains of all color, and for a moment, I swear I hear the sound of his pride shattering into a million tiny pieces. He blinks rapidly, then leans back in his chair, regretting to even give us an admission.
Budhe please maanja, qabar mein hisaab bhi Dena hai. Biwi ke same to achay achay bhi ghayal hai.
(Please oldie be convinced, you have to answer God in grave. Even the strongest stomach crumbles ahead of wives)
Ayra raises an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "What was that, sir? I didn't catch that."
He clears his throat, trying to regain whatever dignity he has left. "You girls⦠you girls are unbelievable."
"Thank you!" I chirp, grinning. "We do try."
Someone remind us that this is the dean of "Aurelian University" not a casual freshie we're bullying.
Inaya elbows me hard in the ribs, whispering, "Shut up, Maha! You're making it worse."
Meanwhile, Hoorain looks like she's auditioning for a role as a statue. She's frozen, staring at the floor like it might open up and swallow her whole. Honestly, same.
The dean finally sits up straight, rubbing his forehead like he's got the weight of the worldâand his wifeâon his shoulders. "Do you have any idea what my wife would do if she saw that picture?"
Ayra doesn't miss a beat. "Judging by her Instagram captions? Probably file for divorce and take the house after ripping your remaining hair off."
I snort, barely managing to cover it with a cough.
The dean points a trembling finger at her. "This is blackmail! Do you understand that?"
"Oh, we're fully aware," Ayra replies, her tone sweet enough to rot teeth. "But it's also problem-solving. You don't suspend us, and we don't ruin your life. Win-win."
I nudge Hoorain. "Say something. He likes you the most."
Hoorain shakes her head frantically. "No way. I'm not getting involved in this. Just tell me when we're good to go."
"Fine, I'll do it." I step forward, adopting my best serious and sincere tone. "Sir, listen. We're sorry for sneaking out. Truly. But let's be honestâwhat's worse: a harmless little rule-breaking or, uh, this?" I wave my phone for emphasis.
The dean flinches like it's a loaded weapon.
"I mean, your dance moves were impressive," I add, unable to resist. "Very⦠modern for someone your age."
Inaya facepalms so hard I hear it. "Maha, stop talking."
The dean sighs like a man defeated. "If I agree to let this go, you promiseâpromiseâthis picture won't see the light of day?"
"Cross my heart," Ayra says, grinning like the Cheshire Cat. "We're not monsters, sir."
"No, just devils in disguise" he mutters, but it's clear he's given up.
As he reluctantly agrees, I glance at my friends. Inaya looks like she's about to faint from relief. Hoorain's shoulders visibly relax, though she still refuses to make eye contact with the dean. Ayra's smirk could power an entire city. And me? Well, I'm already planning how to tell this story to everyone who'll listen.
"Get out," the dean grumbles, waving us toward the door.
"Thank you, sir!" I chirp, grabbing Hoorain's arm to drag her along. "You're the best!"
As soon as we step out of the dean's office, we're greeted by a sight more terrifying than a surprise examâMadhubala, the warden, standing there with the most smug grin I've ever seen
"Well, well, well," she drawls, folding her arms. "Done collecting your suspension letters, girls?"
I exchange a glance with Ayra, who is already biting her lip to suppress a laugh. "Suspension? Oh no, Madhubala ma'am," I say, clasping my hands dramatically. "The dean forgave us."
Because aurat ka chakar Babu bhaiyya aurat ka chakar.
Her grin falters for half a second before she scoffs. "Forgave you? Ha! Don't joke with me, you overconfident parrots. Show me the letters."
"We would," Ayra pipes up, her voice dripping with fake innocence, "but there are no letters, ma'am. Turns out, we're just too charming to suspend."
Madhubala's jaw drops, and for a glorious moment, it's like someone hit pause on her entire thought process. "Impossible!" she sputters. "The dean doesn't forgive rule-breakers!"
But he does forgive blackmailers.
"Oh, but he does," Inaya says, her voice soft but smug. "When he realizes we're just, you know⦠kids who make mistakes."
I lean toward her conspiratorially. "Or maybe he just wanted us out of his office so he could deal with bigger problems."
"Like his wife," Ayra whispers, and we all burst into laughter.
Madhubala glares at us, her face turning an alarming shade of red. "This isn't over!" she snaps before storming into the dean's office, her heels clacking angrily against the floor.
"Aram se madam Zameen na tordein" Ayra says earning aoud laugh from all of us.
The second the door closes, Ayra nudges me. "Maha, do you hear that?"
"Hear what?"
We creep closer to the door, because let's face itâeavesdropping is practically our hobby at this point.
"Sir but they are troublemakers" we hear Madhubala screech.
"Troublemakers? They're brilliant students we can't afford to let them go" the dean replies, his voice weary. "They're just kids, Madhubala. Let it go."
"Kids? Those kids are devils! They'll bring ruin to this institution!"
"Or," the dean says dryly, "they'll graduate and leave us all in peace. Either way, not my problem."
Ayra covers her mouth to muffle her laughter, and I have to grip Hoorain's arm to keep from falling over.
"They're not getting suspended. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have real work to do."
The sound of a chair scraping against the floor is our cue to bolt. We sprint down the hall and burst through the hostel doors, barely able to contain our excitement.
"We're free!" Ayra shouts, throwing her arms in the air.
Inaya exhales like she's just survived a near-death experience. "I can't believe it. We actually pulled it off. Maut ko chooke tak se waapas ayein hai"
Hoorain cracks a small smile, finally letting herself relax. "I thought for sure we were doomed."
I grab Ayra's hand, grinning. "Guys as long as we're together no one can do any wrong with us."
And then, because we're all riding the high of sweet, sweet victory, the four of us link arms and start doing bhangra on our way to the hallway, everyone prolly thinks we're lunatics.
Some might call us immature. I prefer legends in the making.
I've made my mind.
After yesterday the thought kept bugging me that there is a reason behind why Ahad shut that door last night. I need to know why he's not willing to share it with me, I know I was the one to push him away but ye to Jese biwiyon ki Tarah rooth ke maike betha hua hai. He's too stubborn to communicate. Enough Is enough.
(He's like the wife upset from me and sitting in her house)
If he won't tell me, I know someone who will.
Zaid Mirza.
The moment I spot him leaning casually against a locker, glasses perched on his nose, dimples flashing as he scrolls through his phone, I steel myself.
"Zaid," I call out softly, stepping closer. He looks up, one brow quirking in mild curiosity.
"Yups bhabhi" he greets with a lazy smile. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
I clasp my hands, summoning every ounce of patience I have. "I need to ask you something about Ahad."
He adjusts his glasses, his expression indifferent. "About Ahad? You mean your Ahad?"
"Yes, my Ahad," I say firmly. "I need to know about his past."
Zaid sighs, already shaking his head. "Look, Hoorain I'm bound by the chains of promise. And I'm not exactly in the business of spilling family secrets."
"Zaid," I plead, my voice softening. "Please. I need to understand why he's like this. It's important."
But he remains unmoved, tapping away on his phone like I'm not even there. "Bhai comes first"
Frustration boils in me. Innocence clearly isn't getting me anywhere. Right now I only care about getting back my Ahad and the only way I can reassure him is telling him that even after knowing his past I'm there with him because I love him not because I pity him or what.
"Fine," I mutter. Before he can react, I grab the front of his shirt, yank him forward, and slam him against the locker. His phone slips from his hand, clattering to the ground. "Tumhare Bhai ko to mein seedha karloongi"
(I'll handle your brother)
"Either you tell me about my manâs past," I say, voice sharp, "orâyou're telling me. There's no or."
Zaid stares at me, wide-eyed, and then a grin spreads across his face. "Well, well, bhabhi. Lady Ahad Sikandar. Didn't know you had that in you."
I narrow my eyes. "I don't have time to spare. Spit out."
His smirk fades, and he sighs, pushing his glasses up his nose. "Fine. You want the truth? Here it is but only because I can't see him suffer. Ahad was also bullied but he wasn't just bullied, Hoorain. He was destroyed."
My grip loosens slightly as his words sink in, but I don't release him.
"There were students from the university entering your college. They harassed him to the point of breaking. They'd burn his skin, cut his hair, leave him with scarsâscars he still carries. He'd come home covered in blood, barely able to stand. And that day, the day he shut that door? They forced him to do it. They beat him until he couldn't fight back. He didn't even know you were inside until it was too late."
My heart clenches painfully, but Zaid isn't finished.
"When he found out there was a girl in there? Hoorain, he spiraled. He thought he'd ruined someone else's life along with his own. He was so depressed he⦠he tried to end it. We almost lost him."
My hands tremble as I let go of his collar, stepping back. "He⦠tried toâ"
"Suicide," Zaid confirms, his voice heavy. "He had to go through months of therapy to even function again. And then he met you. You were his light, his reason to heal. He didn't know you were the same girl, Hoorain. When he found out, it destroyed him all over again. He let you go because he thought he'd only bring you more pain. He thought you'd be better off without him."
Tears blur my vision as I try to process his words. The weight of Ahad's pain, his guilt, his sacrificeâit crashes over me like a tidal wave.
Zaid sighs, running a hand through his hair. "He still believes you're in pain because of him. He doesn't forgive himself, no matter how much he's healed. And you leaving? That just confirmed his worst fear."
I press a hand to my chest, trying to breathe through the ache. "Why didn't he tell me? Why didn't he let me..?"
"Because he loves you," Zaid interrupts, his tone uncharacteristically gentle. "And in his mind, love means letting you go if it spares you more pain."
I stand there, rooted to the spot, my heart splintering into a thousand pieces. For the first time, I truly see the depth of Ahad's scarsânot just on his body, but on his soul.
And I know one thing for certain.
I have to fix this. I have to fix us. I've broken him. I should've been there for him, that day I was supposed to tell him that the past can be forgotten. Why did I react so emotionally? Why did I ask him to go?
"It wasn't your fault either," Zaid says softly, his voice pulling me from the whirlwind of emotions threatening to drown me.
I blink at him, confused. "Huh?"
"Your reaction," he continues, adjusting his glasses, "was justified. You had PTSD because of that door-closing incident. Anyone would've been disturbed to discover that the same man who helped you overcome your fear was behind it in the first place. You were processing a lot, Hoorain. It doesn't make you the villain here. Now you're the one to say if you love him or not."
I'm madly, insanely in love with Ahad Sikandar and I make a choice right now, I don't wanna be with him out of pity but because I love him. I choose him regardless of everything.
I just stare at him, his words slowly seeping into my consciousness. His tone isn't mocking or sassy for onceâit's sincere, almost brotherly.
"Zaid," I manage to say, my voice cracking slightly. "You're not as bad as you act, you know."
"Wow," he deadpans, though there's a flicker of a smile on his lips. "Don't get all sentimental on me now, bhabhi. My ego might not survive it."
I laugh weakly, wiping at my eyes. "Ayra is lucky to have you."
His smirk fades, replaced by something softer, something almost vulnerable. "I'd consider myself the lucky one."
The words slip out before he can stop them, and his eyes widen slightly as if realizing what he's just admitted.
"Oh, so you finally confessed!" I exclaim, crossing my arms and giving him a teasing smile.
Zaid immediately grows flustered, his usual suave demeanor crumbling. "I didn't confess anything! You..? You're jumping to conclusions!"
I raise an eyebrow. "Really? Because that sounded a lot like a confession to me."
He rubs the back of his neck, his cheeks tinged with a faint pink. "Can we not make this about me? We're supposed to be fixing your love story, remember?"
The mention of Ahad sobers me instantly, my heart tightening again. "You're right," I whisper.
"I always am," Zaid quips, but his tone is gentle. "Now go. Fix things with him. You both deserve it."
The streetlights blur into streaks of yellow as I roar my bike down the grimy alley leading to the underground racing arena. My hands tighten on the handlebars, knuckles white under the tension. The engine growls like the storm raging inside me, a beast that refuses to be tamed.
I don't cry anymore. I don't have it in me. The tears dried up long ago, leaving nothing but this hollow ache and a seething angerâanger at myself, at my past, and at those bullies who made mine and Hoor's life vulnerable.
The familiar stench of burnt rubber fills the air as I pull into the makeshift parking lot. The crowd buzzes, rowdy and electric, fueled by adrenaline and desperation. It's the perfect breeding ground for recklessness, and tonight, I fit right in.
I swing my leg off the bike, my boots hitting the gravel with a crunch. Some guys nearby spot me, their murmurs loud enough to reach my ears.
"Isn't that Ahad Sikandar? Thought he was done with racing."
"Guess the golden boy lost his edge. Lost his girl, too."
"Maybe he'll crash this time."
The last comment hits like a dagger. I turn sharply, my blood boiling. They laugh among themselves, their smug faces daring me to react.
I don't disappoint.
In a flash, I'm in front of them, my fist colliding with the nearest guy's jaw. The crunch is satisfying, but not enough. I grab another by the collar, slamming him against a post. "Say that again," I hiss, my voice low and venomous.
His eyes widen in fear, but before I can do more damage, several hands pull me back. "Ahad, stop! It's not worth it!" someone shouts.
"For that you'll have to use your punch a little less"
Hoorain's words rings in my ears as of she's scolding me for punching someone.
As you wish my love.
I shake them off, my chest heaving. My vision is tinged red, but I force myself to step back. The murmurs around me grow louder, but I block them out. I can't fight. Not when my girl hates it.
The race lineup is announced, and I stride toward my bike, ignoring the concerned looks from a few familiar faces.
"Ahad, this isn't like the others," one of the organizers warns. "This route is deadly. Don't do it."
I ignore him, mounting my bike. The engine purrs under me, a wild animal eager to run free. I rev it once, twice, feeling the vibrations seep into my bones.
"No helmet?" someone asks, their voice incredulous.
I don't answer. Helmets are for those who care about safety. Tonight, I don't care about anything.
The starting line looms ahead, the crowd chanting, betting, screaming. I take my position, my heart pounding in sync with the roar of engines around me.
The flag drops, and I launch forward, the world blurring into chaos.
The wind whips against my face, sharp and biting. The road is narrow, winding, littered with obstacles that would make any sane man hesitate. But sanity is a luxury I left behind.
I push the bike harder, the speedometer climbing relentlessly. The others are behind me, their headlights struggling to catch up.
But then...
I catch a glimpse of another rider in my peripheral vision.
He's fast. Too fast.
I grit my teeth and accelerate, determined to leave him in the dust. But no matter how much I push, he matches me, his bike weaving effortlessly through the twists and turns.
The guy's wearing a black helmet, his face obscured, but his movements are calculated, almost graceful. He performs a stunt over a ramp, landing flawlessly.
What the hell?
I've raced against the best, and no one's ever pushed me like this. Who is this guy?
I push harder, the engine screaming in protest. The finish line is in sight, but so is he.
He takes the lead again, his bike a blur of precision and power. My frustration mounts, but there's no time to dwell on it.
I swerve around a sharp corner, the tires skidding dangerously close to the edge. For a moment, I think I've got him. But then he pulls off another stunt, leaping over an obstacle I barely manage to avoid.
The engine hum of my bike fades into the background as the mysterious rider crosses the finish line, triumphant. My chest heaves, a mixture of frustration and confusion swirling in my head. The crowd's cheers ring loud, but all I can focus on is the figure dismounting the bike ahead of me.
Who is this?
The rider stands tall, almost regal, and reaches for the helmet. My gaze narrows, and the world seems to slow as they lift it, revealing a cascade of ash-brown hair.
My breath catches.
No. It can't be.
"H-Hoorain?" I stammer, my voice barely above a whisper. My jaw drops, and I blink rapidly, as though clearing a mirage from my vision. But no matter how much I rub my eyes, she remains there, standing confidently with those blue eyes. My girl is a professional biker! But why is she here?
She walks toward me, her gaze piercing. I can't move. My feet feel rooted to the ground as if the very earth beneath me refuses to disrupt this moment.
She reaches me, her expression unreadable, and thenâwham!
"Ow!" I yelp as her fist connects with my jaw.
"That's for leaving me!" she yells, her voice cracking.
And then, before I can even process it, she throws her arms around me, burying her face into my chest.
Her sobs shake her tiny frame, and for a moment, my soul detaches, floating above me. This can't be real. I'm holding her...Hoorain....the woman I thought I lost forever. My soul just left my body... I stare at my trembling hands. Should I hold her? I wrap them around her, pulling her closer. The scent of her hair, the warmth of her body against mineâit's overwhelming. It's like getting your soul back.
"Y-you're really here," I manage to choke out, my voice hoarse with emotion.
She pulls back slightly, her tear-streaked face tilting up to look at me. Her eyes, glimmering with both anger and relief, hold mine captive.
"How dare you leave me like that, Ahad Sikandar!" she cries, her fists pounding weakly against my chest. "I hate you! I hate you for making me feel like this!"
My throat tightens as I watch her crumble in my arms.
"Hoorain," I whisper, cupping her face gently. "I⦠I thought I was doing the right thing. I thought I was protecting you."
She shakes her head vehemently, her hands clutching my jacket. "Call me Hoorain one more time and I'll run that bike over you! It's Hoor for you" she sobs and glares at me with that cute red nose. "I don't need protecting. I need you. Do you hear me, Ahad? I would suffer through everything a thousand times over if it meant being with you. I love you Ahad Sikandar and I don't care about anything that happened in the past, I choose you. I'm not giving up on you."
Her words hit me like a freight train, cracking open every wall I had built around my heart. My thumbs brush away her tears as I lean closer, my forehead resting against hers.
"You're everything to me, Hoor" I whisper. "I thought I was sparing you pain, but I was wrong. Losing you was the only thing that truly broke me."
The cheers around us grow louder, and I glance up, noticing the crowd of bikers celebrating. Rascals...Ayan, Zaid, and Rayan...are standing a few feet away, giving me thumbs up and throwing fake punches in the air. The girls are with them, grinning and gesturing wildly.
My gaze softens as I look back at her. "I'm sorry for everything I did Hoor.. trust me I didn't know you were there.."
Her hands frame my face, her voice trembling but firm. "Shh, I know everything Ahad and I'm sorry for not sharing your nightmares. Being with you will never remind me of the past but only the reason why I started loving life in the first place."
Emotion wells up in my chest, and for the first time in years, I feel whole.
"Ahad I was desired but never loved, I was a choice but never chosen, I was the maybe but never the one, however, you made me feel like I'm the only who one who exists." She sighs. "The ache of your absence was a scar that never faded and kept on hurting me"
"What I would do without you Ahad? Leaving you is like staying in that dark room locked forever... You're my light."
Her words soothe every scar of uncertainty on my soul. I thought I was doing better while pushing her away from me but all I did, break a beautiful relationship. I should've stayed and explained my side.
Without any hesitation, my hand dips into my pocket, retrieving the small box that has been my silent companion since the day I made the worst decision of my life. My fingers tremble as I flip it open, revealing a delicate ring encased with tiny flowersâher favorite blossoms, painstakingly transformed from dried petals into something eternal. I don't know if I'm doing right or not but I've realized one thing... In this life and afterlife she's the only one I want by my side and I can't let her go. At first I thought it was too early because I wasn't earning well for her but now I do have a position offered at one of the world's best tech companies besides, I haven't been more sure of anything.
The soft shimmer catches the light, but it pales in comparison to the way her eyes widen, filling with unspoken emotion. She covers her mouth with her hands, a shaky breath escaping her lips.
"Ahadâ¦" she whispers, her voice barely audible over the murmurs of the crowd around us.
But I don't hear them. I don't see anyone else.
This moment belongs to her. To us.
I lower myself onto one knee, the world tilting until all I can feel is the thunderous rhythm of my heart. Every beat echoes her name, every second carries the weight of everything I've wanted to say but never could.
"Hoor" I begin, my voice thick with emotion, "from the moment you stormed into my life, you've been the silence, calm, beauty and everything I needed. You turned my darkness into light. Every corner of my existence has been painted with your colors, and now, I can't imagine a life where you're not the center of it."
Her tears fall freely, tracing delicate lines down her cheeks, but she doesn't look away. Her gaze is locked on me, her chest rising and falling with each uneven breath.
"I've made mistakes," I continue, my voice trembling as I look up into her teary eyes, "so many mistakes. But the biggest one was letting you go. I thought I was protecting you, but all I did was lose the very thing that gave my life meaning. You're not just my heart, Hoorain. You're my every breath, my every dream, my every reason to try again."
I pause, gathering my courage, though my chest feels like it might collapse under the weight of this moment.
"This ringâ¦" I glance at the delicate petals now encased in metal, my fingers tightening around the box. "This started everything. It's more than just a promise. It's a symbol of everything we've endured, everything we've built, and everything I hope we'll become. These petals survived storms, were pressed and preserved, and now they'll last foreverâjust like my love for you." Oh my god I can die with the rate my heart is beating. "Hoorain Shah, I promise to be a husband you imagine while you're writing your books, I promise to respect your every adventure with your best friends, to love you little less than tomorrow and more than yesterday. Will you marry me Hoor?"
A choked sob escapes her, and I see her eyes dart toward the group of girls tearing at the edge of the crowd. their hands wildly, gesturing as if to say, Say yes, you idiot!
I can't help but chuckle, the sound low and soft. "Don't look at them, Hoor," I tease gently, my lips curving into a small smile despite the tears brimming in my own eyes. "If you need their permission to say yes, I'll gladly beg them too."
Her gaze snaps back to mine, and I see itâthe love, the joy, the overwhelming emotion swirling in her expression. It's enough to make my own throat tighten.
Taking a deep breath, I press on, my voice quieter but no less sincere. I should speak more to convince her c'mon Ahad Sikandar you're proposing a writer.
"Hoorain Shah, you're the calm to my chaos, the beat that keeps me alive. Marry meânot because I deserve you, but because I promise to spend the rest of my life proving that I do. Let me be the man who holds your hand through every storm, who makes you laugh even on the darkest days, and who will love you fiercely, endlessly, and without condition."
The world stills as I hold my breath, waiting for her reply. She looks at me, her lips trembling, her face glowing despite the tears streaking her cheeks. And then, after what feels like an eternity, she lets out a shaky laugh, shaking her head in disbelief.
"Yes," she finally whispers, her voice cracking with emotion. "A thousand times yes."
I slip the ring onto her finger with reverent care, my hands shaking as if this moment is too fragile to be real. When I rise to my feet, she launches herself into my arms, her sobs muffled against my chest. I hold her tightly, burying my face in her hair, letting the relief and joy crash over me like a tidal wave.
The crowd erupts in cheers, and I catch sight of Rayan with a smile while girls hug eachother, wiping their own teary eyes. Ayan and Zaid are whistling like lunatics, and even the bikers are clapping and shouting in celebration.
Hoorain looks up at me, her lips trembling as she whispers, "I hate you for making me wait so long."
I chuckle softly, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "I hate me too, but I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you."
Her laughter mixes with tears as I lean down, pressing my forehead against hers. In this moment, with her in my arms and the ring on her finger, I know one thing for certain:
This is the start of forever.
(HEY GUYS YOUR ZAY HERE!! I CAN'T CONTAIN MY EXCITEMENT ð OUR AHARA IS NOW ENGAGED!!!! THOUGHT YOU GUYS MAY WISH TO READ THE CHAOS ON HOW THE CLAN REACHED THE BIKE RACE AND HOORAIN RIDING A BIKE! "A SURPRISE FOR MYSELF AS WELL" IF YOU DON'T WANT TO READ THEN YOU CAN SCROLL TO AYAN'S POV)
BONUS PART
AUTHOR'S POV
The entire clan stands in front of the street bike racing venue, each one a caricature of determination and chaos. The roar of engines and the pulse of adrenaline in the air is nothing compared to the energy radiating from this motley crew.
Maha, bouncing on the balls of her feet, claps her hands excitedly. "Perfect venue for a patch up"
Ayan, leaning casually against the hood of their car, grins. "I know right. I'm going to give my best friend to Hoorain myself, how wonderful chance I had to get him for me only"
"Sad," Ayra deadpans, crossing her arms. "So discrimination for a gay"
Ayan gasps in mock offense. "Then mind telling me your gender when you're so close to my girl."
Rayan groans, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Can we focus? Ahad is literally about to kill himself on a bike race, and you two are arguing about who's gay and who's not!"
"Let them," Zaid drawls lazily, glancing at his watch. "They'll burn themselves out before we even get inside."
Inaya nudges him with her elbow. "And what's your plan, Mr. Cool? Are you going to waltz in and charm the guards with your dimples?"
"Actually," Zaid says, smirking, "that was plan A."
"Oh for God sake" Hoorain snaps, pacing back and forth. "We don't have time for this! Someone come up with a real plan! I need to go in."
"I have a plan," Maha announces, raising her hand like an overenthusiastic student.
"No," Rayan and Ayra say in unison.
"You didn't even hear it!" Maha protests.
"Last time you planned something, we ended up running from a wedding." Rayan mutters.
"Guys!" Ayan interrupts, pointing dramatically at the venue entrance. "What if we do a full Mission Impossible? Hoorain can distract the guards with her innocent face while Iâ"
"While you what?" Ayra interrupts. "Fall flat on your face like always?"
"Enough!" Hoorain yells, her patience finally snapping. "I'm going in, whether you all figure out a plan or not."
"Nope." Zaid grabs her wrist, pulling her back. "Ahad will kill all of us if we let you go in alone."
"So what do we do?" Inaya asks, her voice laced with exasperation.
Maha's face lights up with inspiration. "We bribe the guards!"
Everyone stares at her.
"With what?" Ayra asks dryly.
"Our charm, of course!" Maha declares, fluttering her eyelashes.
"We're doomed," Rayan mutters.
"Alright, listen," Zaid says, stepping forward. "Let's split into two groups. Ayan and I will distract the guards at the main entrance. Rayan, Ayra, and Inaya will sneak Hoorain through the back. Mahaâ¦"
"Yes?" Maha beams.
"You stay here and⦠cheer us on."
"Hey!" she protests, but no one listens. "Rhino!"
Rayan sighs and picks her up like she's of no weight. "Just stay like this quietly."
AT THE ENTRANCE
Rayan scowls as they crouch behind a stack of crates. "I can't believe I'm doing this."
"Shh," Ayra whispers. "You'll blow our cover."
"Oh, please," Inaya says, rolling her eyes. "The guards are more interested in their phones than us."
Hoorain peeks over the crates, her heart pounding. "Are you sure this is going to work?"
"Nope," Ayra replies cheerfully.
"Great."
Suddenly, a loud crash echoes from the front entrance, followed by Ayan's unmistakable voice yelling, "I'm just here for some entertainment!"
The clan realizes that the guards are behind them.
Hoorain bites back a laugh as the guards rush toward the commotion. "That's our cue!"
The group scrambles toward the entrance, ducking and weaving like characters in a poorly planned heist movie. Just as they reach the gate, Rayan stops, glaring at Ayra.
"This was your idea, wasn't it?"
"Move!" Ayra hisses, shoving him forward.
INSIDE THE VENUE
The group huddles behind a stack of crates, peeking out cautiously as guards patrol the area. The roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber fill the air, but none of it distracts them from their current mission: sneaking Hoorain in without getting caughtâor worse, killed.
Hoorain suddenly straightens up, determination etched across her face. "I'm going to ride a bike."
Dead silence.
Ayan breaks it with a loud, incredulous laugh. "You're WHAT?"
"I'm going to ride a bike," she repeats, her tone firm.
Maha clutches her stomach, already doubling over in laughter. "This has to be a joke! Hoorain on a bike? What is this? The prequel to Fast and Furious?"
Zaid stares at her like she's grown a second head. "Do you even know how to handle a bike?"
Hoorain crosses her arms, her chin lifting defiantly. "I loved riding bikes. I used to do it all the time as a therapy session after my dad.... I just⦠stopped after coming to university."
Ayan gasps theatrically, clutching his chest. "Who are you, and what have you done with the real Hoorain? Is this some kind of body swap? Did aliens abduct the innocent girl we knew?"
Rayan groans, rubbing his temples. "This is not the time for one of your ridiculous theories, Ayan. Hoorain, seriously, are you sure about this?"
"Dead serious."
"Dead being the key word here," Zaid mutters under his breath.
Ayra glares at Hoorain, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Oh, fantastic. You're just going to hop on a bike in the middle of an illegal street race with no recent practice, surrounded by lunatics who probably think helmets are optional."
Hoorain narrows her eyes. "I know what I'm doing."
Maha pipes up, still giggling. "Do you, though? Or is this one of those moments where you don't think at all?"
Inaya sighs, looking genuinely worried. "Hoor if something happens to you, Ahad will kill all of us. And then he'll resurrect us just to kill us again."
"Exactly," Zaid agrees, pointing at her. "We'll be dead. All of us. He'll make sure of it."
Ayan, however, is grinning like a Cheshire cat. "You know what? I'm kind of into this idea. Chaos? Check. Drama? Check. Potentially hilarious outcomes? Double check."
"You're not helping," Rayan snaps.
Hoorain rolls her eyes. "I'm not asking for your permission. I'm doing this." She steps out of their hiding spot, heading toward one of the spare bikes.
"From when did she start acting like Ahad himself?"
Maha grabs Ayra's arm, whispering loudly. "Should we stop her?"
"Stop her?" Ayan exclaims. "This is pure entertainment!"
"Ayan," Rayan growls, his patience wearing thin. "If you don't shut up, you'll be the first one Ahad murders."
Zaid walks briskly to Hoorain, blocking her path. "Listen, Hoorain, as much as I enjoy seeing someone other than me make reckless decisions, this isn't a good idea."
"I'm doing it, Zaid," she replies firmly, sidestepping him.
Ayan jogs up, shaking his head in disbelief. "Wow, wow, wow. Look at you. Bold, brave, and absolutely insane. I love this version of you!"
She glares at him. "I swear, Ayan, one more wordâ"
"Okay, okay, I'm zipping it." He makes a zipping motion over his lips, though his mischievous grin remains.
Meanwhile, Rayan crosses his arms, muttering to himself, "This is going to be a disaster."
Ayra nods solemnly. "No question about it."
As Hoorain mounts the bike and revs the engine, the sound roars through the air, silencing her friends. The look of pure confidence on her face is enough to shut even Zaid up. Aww
"I can't believe this," Maha whispers to Inaya.
"None of us can," Inaya replies.
Ayan, now standing beside Rayan, leans over and whispers, "If she pulls this off, I'm declaring her my new idol."
Rayan sighs deeply. "If she doesn't pull this off, we're all doomed."
With one last rev, Hoorain takes off, leaving her stunned, chaotic friends behind in a cloud of dust and disbelief.
I'm practically bouncing in my seat, the excitement bubbling out of me like soda in a shaken bottle. We're all gathered at a cozy restaurant, celebrating Ahad's engagement. The table is packed with plates of food, laughter, and chaos...just the way it should be.
Ahad and Hoorain sit at the head of the table, looking like the power couple they are. Ahad's hand rests on Hoorain's, the ring on her finger sparkling under the light. Ahad looks happier than I've ever seen him, and for once, he's not scowling like he's plotting world domination. Hoorain yeah she's back to being her innocent self.
I grab a chicken wing and point it at Zaid, smirking. "So, Zaid, how does it feel knowing Hoorain is braver than you? She rode that bike like a pro while you hid behind a crate like a scared cat."
Zaid glares at me, his jaw tightening. "I wasn't hiding. I was strategizing."
"Oh, strategizing," Maha chimes in, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Is that what you call standing there and yelling, 'Hoorain, don't do it! Ahad will kill us!'?"
The table erupts in laughter, and Zaid groans, rubbing his temples. "I hate all of you."
Ayra leans forward, smirking. "Not as much as we hate your so-called strategies."
"Speaking of strategies," Rayan says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "What was your plan, Ayan? To cheer Hoorain on while we all panicked?"
I grin. "Of course! Someone had to appreciate her bravery. Besides, you were too busy pretending to be calm while internally combusting."
Rayan narrows his eyes. "I wasn't combusting."
"Oh, really?" Inaya pipes up, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "Then what was that whole "we're doomed" speech you gave while pacing like a maniac?"
I burst out laughing, slapping the table. "Exactly! Admit it, Rayan. You were freaking out more than Zaid!"
"Can we move on?" Rayan grumbles, clearly done with the topic.
But Maha, of course, isn't. "Oh no, we're not moving on just yet." She wiggles her eyebrows at Rayan. "Speaking of freaking out, let's talk about how you fell in love with me. The crazy one of the group!"
Rayan freezes, his jaw tightening. "Mahaâ¦" omg Rayan blushing!!! He's literally all Red! Someone please give me my phone.
"Yes, Maha," Inaya cuts in, smirking. "We need details. When did the grumpy, brooding football captain decide he couldn't live without the chaotic hurricane that is Maha?"
Maha bats her eyelashes at him. "Come on, Rayan. Don't be shy."
He looks like he wants the ground to swallow him whole, but before he can Hoorain speaks up. "Actually, we have a more pressing question. Rayan, how could you date Maha without consulting us first? We're her best friends. We need an interview."
"An interview?" Rayan repeats, his tone incredulous.
"Yes," Inaya says, nodding solemnly. "The same one Ahad went through."
"But Ayan didn't go through it!" Rayan complains
"Because I'm the charming brother" I wink at him.
Rayan looks utterly done with life as the girls lean forward, eyes gleaming with mischief. Ayra steeples her fingers like a detective about to crack a case. Hoorain watches everything with awe, while Inaya flips an imaginary notepad open.
"Alright, Mr. Football Captain," Inaya begins in a mock-serious tone. "We've prepared some scenarios for you. Answer honestly, or this interrogation could go on all night."
Rayan rolls his eyes but doesn't argue. His gaze flickers to Maha, who's perched on the edge of her seat, trying to stifle a grin.
"Scenario one," Hoorain announces, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "It's your anniversary, and Maha's upset because you forgot to plan something. What do you do?"
Rayan's brow furrows. "First of all, I wouldn't forget. But if I somehow didâ¦" He pauses, his gaze softening as he glances at Maha. "I'd probably spend the entire day trying to make it up to her. Orchids, her favorite ice cream, and⦠maybe dance with her on her favorite item songs."
"Aw!" Inaya clutches her heart dramatically. "He's actually trying, girls. I'm impressed."
"Darling I'm willing to do more than that!" I pull her chair closer to me.
"It's not about you Ayan!" She chuckles and swats my arm.
Maha beams at him, but she quickly masks it with a playful scoff. "You better not forget, Rayan."
"I won't," he mutters, his ears turning red.
Ayra smirks, leaning forward. "Scenario two. You're at one of your big football matches, and Maha shows up with a giant, embarrassing sign that says, 'My boyfriend is the best footballer in the world!" How do you react?"
Rayan groans, running a hand down his face. "Do I have to answer this?"
"Yes!" the girls chorus.
He exhales sharply. "Fine. I'd love it because she's there to cheer me, I'm her man and she can cheer for me however she wishes"
Maha's cheeks flush, and she elbows him lightly. "See? I knew you had a soft side."
Hoorain grins wickedly. "Scenario three. Maha's upset about something and refuses to tell you what it is. What do you do?"
Rayan sighs, leaning back in his chair. "Maha will never stay quiet under any circumstances, she's a walking radio."
"Hey!" Maha protests, throwing a fry at him.
The table falls silent for a moment before Ayra claps her hands together. "Alright, girls, I think he's passed the test."
"Barely," Inaya teases.
Maha is practically glowing, her eyes shining as she leans closer to Rayan. "You're lucky I love you, Rayan Khan."
"Yeah, yeah," he mutters, but his hand finds hers under the table, squeezing it gently.
To be honest nothing...nothing...
matches the energy at our table. It's like sitting at the center of a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and memories.
"Ok guys Rayan is officially allowed to date Maha and now finally all of us are committed" I beam out.
Ahad, the once-mysterious "green flag" of our group, now sits beside Hoorain, their hands intertwined under the table as if the universe finally decided to stop playing games with them. She glows, her smile wide and genuine, and Ahad? He's actually grinning. Grinning! I never thought I'd see the day after their breakup.
"You know," I say, leaning back in my chair with a smirk, "if someone told me a year ago that Ahad Sikandar would be a whipped fiancé, I'd have laughed in their face."
Ahad raises an eyebrow at me but doesn't let go of Hoorain's hand. "And if someone told me you'd end up with someone great like Inaya, I'd have bet my entire fortune against it."
Inaya gasps dramatically, smacking my arm. "Thankyou Ahad Bhai" they both share a fist bump and I almost chuckle at this bro sis duo.
"Yeah I know I'm really lucky to have her by my side" I place a kiss on her hair.
Rayan snorts from across the table, looking as grumpy as ever. "This is unbearable."
"Oh, lighten up, Khan," Maha chimes in, rolling her eyes. "You were literally dying to kiss my cheeks on the match."
Rayan stiffens, his ears turning red. "Filters Maha filters"
"Whatever" Maha interrupts, her laughter ringing out like bells. "Guys I bet he's the gentleman in the streets and a beast in the sheets."
The table erupts in laughter, and Rayan just groans, muttering something under his breath that sounds suspiciously like, "Why am I here?"
Zaid, who's been quietly sipping his drink, finally chimes in "who thought the final year would bring all of us here."
Ayra glares at him. "I know right? Engaged to my enemy and academic rival you know I miss the chivalry."
"You miss that?" Zaid's jaw drops.
"Why so serious Zaid? I was kidding" she deadpans, and the table bursts out laughing again.
Ahad clears his throat, his gaze softening as he looks around the table. "You know, I don't think I've ever been this happy. With all of you together I believe life can never be more beautiful."
"Wow," I say, feigning shock. "Are you saying this because you're with Hoorain" I side eye Hoorain to which she sticks her tongue out, "or because of your best friend who literally went out of limits to get you guys back"
He rolls his eyes but nods. "Yeah, thankyou Ayan. Don't let it go to your head."
Too late. I puff out my chest, grinning. "You heard him, guys. I'm officially the best friend of the year."
Inaya smacks my arm again, but she's laughing. "You're impossible."
"That's why you love me," I shoot back, winking at her.
The conversation drifts to our future plansâAhad and Hoorain's wedding, Zaid and Ayra's ongoing battle over guest lists, Rayan and Maha's next adventure, and, of course, Inaya and me. Currently discussing our plans after all of us have graduated and settled.
"I'm thinking about our first trip around Europe?" I say, leaning forward. "Sounds interesting?"
"Or the Maldives," Inaya adds, her eyes lighting up.
"Can you two even afford that?" Rayan asks, raising an eyebrow.
Reality check nahi Dena tha!!
"Hey, I'm very resourceful," I say, feigning offense. "And besides, Rayan would've signed a million dollar deal with a football team so he'll sponsor our trip."
"No way," Rayan mutters, shaking his head.
The laughter continues, each joke and memory weaving a tighter bond between us. These are my people, my familyâthe ones who've been there through every high and low, every ridiculous plan and every heartfelt moment.
As the night winds down, I look around the table, taking in the faces of the people who mean everything to me. Ahad and Hoorain are sharing a quiet moment, Zaid and Ayra are still debating something, Rayan is reluctantly smiling at something Maha said, and Inaya is leaning into me, her laughter soft and warm against my shoulder.
"This," I say, raising my glass, "is what life's about. Friends, chaos, and a whole lot of love."
Everyone raises their glasses, their smiles bright and genuine.
"To us," Hoorain says, her voice filled with warmth.
"To us," we echo, clinking our glasses together.
And as the sound of our laughter fills the air, I can't help but think that thisâright here, surrounded by my peopleâis the happiest I've ever been.
(â à¹â Ëâ â¥â Ëâ à¹â )
HEY GUYS I HOPE Y'ALL ARE DOING FINE AND WELL.
I KNOW Y'ALL DIDN'T EXPECT A CHAPTER TODAY BUT IT'S 12 JAN, THE DAY I STARTED WRITING IN THE FIRST PLACE. NEVER THOUGHT ONE OF MY BOOK WOULD RECEIVE THIS MUCH LOVE ðâ¤ï¸ THANKYOU SO MUCHHH..
ONE THING I REALIZED WHILE WRITING THE LAST SCENE "YOU TAKE ZAYNA OUT OF HUMRAAH NOT THE HUMRAAH OUT OF ZAYNA" ð
THE FRIENDSHIP AND THE BOND ALL OF THEM SHARE IS SOMETHING I'LL NEVER COME OVER.
SO HERE'S TO MY WRITING ANNIVERSARY ð¦ CHEERS TO UPCOMING BOOKS AND CHARACTERS.
DON'T FORGET TO VOTE AND COMMENT.
STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY.