Chapter 34

Uswa, adorned in her vibrant lehenga, gracefully settled on the bed. The fabric flowed with each subtle movement, yet the typical glow of anticipation that accompanies a bride-to-be was absent from her recently washed face. Instead, a deep concern furrowed her brow.

"Kubra api, Hyra kaisi hai?" she inquired about Hyra, her voice eager for reassurance.

(Kubra api, how is Hyra?)

"Pata nahi, doctor check-up kar rahi hain," Kubra replied.

(I don't know, doctor is doing her check-up.)

"Kya ho gaya ussey, woh toh bilkul theek thi na. Mera toh dil leta ja raha hai yeh soch soch ke." Rubbing her hands together, Uswa tries to calm her heart.

(What happened to her? She was perfectly fine. My heart is crashing down with the worry.)

"Baitha. Dil baitha jata hai," Kubra corrected her.

(Sinks. Heart sinks with worry)

"Huh? Nahi, main zyada pareshan hoon na, mera wala lait gaya hai," Uswa said with a sigh.

(Huh, Huh? No, I'm more worried; my heart is crashing with these thoughts.)

"Sirf tumhara wala hi lait sakta hai." Despite being worried for Hyra, Kubra smiled at Uswa's words.

(Only your heart can crash.)

•••

Hayder's anger simmered beneath the surface, mirroring the worry across his sharp face. He met Dawar's accusing gaze with a stern expression.

"Dawar, iss waqt mujhe koi baat nahi karni, main waise hi pareshaan hoon," Hayder's voice carried the weight of concern, but Dawar remained undeterred. Ignoring the plea, Dawar placed a hand on Hayder's shoulder, stopping him from leaving, further fueling the tension.

(Dawar, I don't want to talk right now; I'm already distressed.)

"Tum kis liye pareshaan ho?" Dawar's inquiry, though well-intentioned, struck a nerve. In the charged atmosphere, Hayder's frustration erupted.

(Why are you upset?)

"Gussa karne se pehle uske consequences sochte toh Hyra iss haal mein na hoti," Dawar's words only stoked the flames of Hayder's anger.

(Hyra wouldn't be in this state if you thought about the consequences before getting angry.)

"Hyra ko hosh mein aney do," Hayder's glare bore into Dawar's, a mix of anger and desperation. Each word that followed was a sharp retort, delivered through gritted teeth. "Tumse main tab baat karunga."

(Let Hyra wake up.)

(I'll talk to you then.)

Dawar's anger intensified as he glared at Hayder, the air thick with tension. "Main bhi tumse tabhi baat karunga. Aur agar mujhe pata chala tumne Hyra pe awaz bhi uchi ki hai toh mujhe zara waqt nahi lagega tumhara munh torhne mein."

(I'll talk to you then too. And if I find out you even raised your voice at Hyra, I won't take long to break your face.)

Hayder, his own anger fueled by Dawar's accusation, pushed away Dawar's hand forcefully.

"Mere aur meri biwi ke matter se durr raho." He warned, his tone low and menacing. His dark eyes flashed with a mix of frustration and a warning not to push him further.

(Stay away from me and my wife's matters.)

"Tumhe achhe se pata hai meri zindagi mein koi interfere kare, mujhe yeh bilkul bardasht nahi. Chahe woh Hyra ka bhai hi kyu na ho." Hayder asserted, his voice firm and unwavering. Hyra ka bhai. This sentence clearly indicated that at this moment, Hayder did not consider Dawar as his friend.

(You know very well I can't tolerate anyone interfering in my life, even if it's Hyra's brother.)

"Hyra ko koi takleef hui toh parwah main bhi nahi karunga samne Hyra ka shohar hi kyu na ho."

(If Hyra is in trouble, I won't care even if her husband is in front of me.)

The threat and warning hung heavily in the charged atmosphere, leaving the room poised on the brink of a confrontation that could shatter the fragile balance between friends.

Hayder retreated to the shadows of the hallway, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed tightly over his chest.

Dawar also joined the gathering outside the room. His gaze bore into Hayder, a silent accusation still burning in his eyes. Arzoo, Hanif Mirza, and Shahzaib exchanged worried glances.

Hanif Mirza's stern gaze locked onto Hayder, suspicion etched across his face, as if holding him responsible for Hyra's current state.

Hayder remained stoic, his jaw clenched.

•••

The door creaked open, and the doctor emerged from the room. Arzoo, Dawar, and Hayder approached her, their eyes filled with anticipation and concern.

"Unke husband kon hain?" The doctor's question hung in the air, and Arzoo's gaze instinctively turned towards Hayder. He nodded solemnly, confirming his relationship with Hyra.

(Who is her husband?)

With a furrowed brow, Hayder asked, "Hyra theek toh hai?" The worry etched on his face was evident, and Arzoo and Dawar awaited the doctor's response with bated breath.

(Is Hyra okay?)

The doctor's expression softened as she relayed unexpected news. "Fikar karne ki zaroorat nahi hai, she is expecting."

(Don't worry,)

Arzoo's eyes lit up, and Rabia's face bloomed into a joyful smile at the revelation. Dawar's eyes widened in realization, and a mix of emotions crossed his face before he smacked his forehead, regret written all over his features.

Hanif Mirza and Shahzaib, overhearing the news, shared in the joy. However, Hayder stood stunned, his brow furrowed in perplexity.

Expecting what? Slowly, the pieces started to click into place, and Hayder found himself silently contemplating what this unexpected turn meant for their lives.

A moment of realization flickered in Hayder's dark eyes, and a mix of emotions crossed his face—surprise, astonishment, and a touch of disbelief.

Hayder stood in shock, the revelation of Hyra's pregnancy echoing in his mind. Confusion clouded his thoughts as he tried to grasp the profound implications of the news.

Hanif Mirza approached him with a warm smile, his eyes reflecting happiness and pride. Without uttering a word, Hanif Mirza enveloped Hayder in a congratulatory hug, patting him on the back.

"Mubarak ho, Hayder! Tumne toh itni badi khushi deke meri umr dugni kardi." Hanif Mirza exclaimed, genuine joy in his voice. The warmth of the hug, coupled with the heartfelt congratulations, slowly penetrated Hayder's initial shock.

(Congratulations, Hayder! You've doubled my life with such big news.)

•••

In Uswa's room, Rabia entered with a smile, directing Kubra to head upstairs. "Beta, tum upper jao, Sarim agaya hai."

(Dear, go upstairs, Sarim have come.)

"Badi mummy, Hyra kaisi hai?" Concerned, Kubra asked.

(How's Hyra?)

"Bilkul theek hai woh. Tum uppar toh jao." Rabia assured her. Kubra nodded and left.

(She's perfectly fine. You go upstairs.)

Uswa, ever observant, couldn't help but question the peculiar reactions of her mother and Choti Mummy whenever Hyra faced health issues.

"Mummy, yeh Hyra ke behosh hone pe apko aur choti mummy ko kya khushi milti hai? Uss din bhi choti mummy khush thi aur ab aap." She asked, curiosity evident in her voice.

(Mummy, what joy do you and Choti mummy find in Hyra fainting? Choti mummy was happy that day, and now you.)

Rabia chuckled, lightly slapping Uswa's head. "Pagal, tum nahi samjhogi," she teased.

(You won't understand.)

"Choti mummy ne bhi yahi kaha tha. Woh sab chorhein, Hyra kaisi hai?"

(Even choti mummy said the same thing. Leave it, how's Hyra?)

Rabia, unable to contain her amusement, decided to spill the beans. "Uswa, tum khala banne wali ho." she declared.

(You are going to be khala)

Rolling her eyes, Uswa corrected, "Bua. Mummy, main bua banne wali hoon, khala toh main tab banugi jab Hyra..." She trailed off, realization dawning on her. A mischievous glint appeared in her eyes,

(Bua, I'm going to be bua, I'll become Khala when Hyra...)

Uswa, bubbling with excitement, leapt off the bed and grabbed Rabia's arm, her eyes shining with joy.

"Mummy, wakai mera dimple baby araha hai?" she asked eagerly, a contagious enthusiasm radiating from her.

(Mummy, is my dimple baby really coming?)

Rabia chuckled at Uswa's infectious excitement and nodded, affirming the happy news. Uswa, unable to contain her delight, enveloped Rabia in a tight hug.

Ready to share the news with Hyra, Uswa declared, "Main abhi Hyra se milke ayi!" She took a step towards the door, but Rabia stopped her.

(I'll meet Hyra right now.)

"Ruk jao. Ek toh mayoon baith chuki ho tum, aur woh tumhara hone wala sasural. Koi nahi uppar ja rahi tum."

(Wait. First of all, you're not allowed to go out now, and that's your future in-law's house. You're not going upstairs.)

Uswa's enthusiasm dimmed, her excitement giving way to a subtle sadness. "But mujhe Hyra se milna hai," she sighed.

(But I want to meet Hyra.)

Rabia, still smiling, reassured her, "Kal mil lena. Abhi waise bhi woh uthi nahi hai. Hyra ko aaj ke liye aram karne do." Uswa's face brightened a bit at the prospect of waiting just one more day.

(You can meet her tomorrow. Right now, she's not awake. Let Hyra rest for today.)

"Okay, Mummy," Uswa agreed, albeit a bit reluctantly.

•••

When Kubra went upstairs, she first saw Shahzaib and Sarim engrossed in a conversation. Planning to visit Hyra later, Kubra headed toward Sarim.

"Assalam-Alaikum!" Kubra was genuinely happy to see Sarim. When Sarim had mentioned in the morning that he had important work and wouldn't be able to come, Kubra's heart had felt disappointed.

"Walekum-Assalam!" Kubra had expressed her hope to Sarim, urging him to try to come. Sarim couldn't turn down her request.

Sarim fixed a deep gaze on Kubra. He was in the office when Kubra arrived, so he had no idea what she was wearing. In her mustard yellow shalwar kameez, simple makeup, and a French braid, she looked more beautiful than ever. Sarim had never seen anyone so stunning in yellow before; perhaps, that color was made just for Kubra.

At that moment, Rafey also arrived.

"Hi!"

"Tumne chehra kyu saaf kar liya? Thori derr toh haldi lagaye rehte." Shahzaib couldn't help commenting on Rafey's paste-free face.

(Why did you clean your face? You should've let Haldi stayed for a while.)

"Chup karo, itni itching ho rahi thi, ek toh sabne itni buri tarah se paste lagaya, mujhe laga Hayder bhai ki tarah agar main bhi keh dunga mujhe koi haldi nahi lagaye, toh mujhe koi haldi nahi lagayega, par yaha toh sabne holi khel li haldi se. Issey pehle mere pimple ajaye, maine wash kar liya." Rafey made faces, then complained.

(Shut up, it was itching so much. Everyone applied the paste so harshly; I thought if I say I won't put haldi like Hayder bhai said, no one will put haldi on me. But here, everyone played holi with haldi. Before I could get pimples, I washed it off.)

"Sarim, tumhe bhi aise hi haldi lagi thi kya?" He then asked Sarim. Sarim was also newlywed, and Rafey thought he could get some tips.

(Sarim, did you also have haldi like this?)

"Rasme toh aisi hi hoti hain." Despite Sarim not being comfortable with Rafey's playful manner, he tried to be polite. After all, Rafey was a relative of Kubra, and Sarim couldn't be rude to him and hurt Kubra's sentiments.

(Rituals are like that.)

"Sabke yaha aise hota hai, bas tumhare hi nakhre hain, Princess." Shahzaib teased Rafey.

(It happens everywhere; it's just your tantrums, Princess.)

"Main Princess toh Hayder bhai queen hain." Rafey replied, standing his ground.

(If I'm a princess; then Hayder bhai is the queen.)

"Hayder bhai," Kubra's alarmed voice came, not addressing Rafey but looking past him.

Rafey's breath stopped, fearing the worst, he gathered courage to turn around and face Hayder. He recited a silent prayer; at least, he had that much in his fate when facing death.

But his breath returned when he saw no one behind him. Shahzaib's loud, and Kubra's soft laughter made Rafey realize he had been fooled by them.

"Shadi se pehle mera heart fail karwane ka irada hai kya?" Rafey glared them, who were seemingly unapologetic and unashamed for their actions.

(Are you planning to give me a heart attack before my wedding?)

"Fikar na karo, jab tak tumhari shadi nahi ho jati tum Uswa ki amanat ho humare paas. Tumhe kuch nahi honge denge hum." Shahzaib placed a reassuring hand on Rafey's shoulder, offering him comfort.

(Don't worry; until you get married, you're entrusted to us by Uswa. We won't let anything happen to you)

"Haan lekin uske baad apni harkat se Uswa tumhe heart attack de de toh uski hum guarantee nahi le sakte." Kubra added.

(But if Uswa gives you a heart attack after your wedding, we can't guarantee that.)

•••

When Hyra regained consciousness, she found Arzoo and Minal by her side. The sight of them together felt strange to her, and though she wanted to sit up, her weakness held her back.

"Maama..."

"Laiti raho, abhi bhi kamzori hogi tumhe." Arzoo lovingly ran her fingers through Hyra's hair and told her.

(Lie down; you might still be weak.)

"Kya hua?" With a mix of surprise and confusion, Hyra looked at both of them and then softly inquired.

(What happened, maama?)

"Beta, tumhe nahi pata tumne kitni badi good news di hai iss ghar ko." Minal had love for Hyra in her words.

(Dear, you don't know what great news you've given to this house.)

"Bhabhi, aap samjhaye ab issey. Main kuch khane ke liye bhejti hoon iske liye." Minal understood Hyra's confusion, so she left after saying this.

(Bhabhi, you explain this to her. I'll send something for her to eat.)

"Kya hua, maama?" Hyra couldn't comprehend what was happening. The last thing she remembered was the argument between her and Hayder. He was holding her hand, not allowing her to leave the room, but when she tried to pull her hand away forcefully, suddenly the ground beneath her started sliding.

(What happened, maama?)

"Hyra, tum maa banne wali ho." Arzoo held her face in her hands and told her.

(Hyra, you're going to be a mother.)

Hyra's eyes widened in disbelief, the color draining from her face. A sudden stillness overcame her, and she stared blankly into the unknown, her mind struggling to comprehend the weight of the revelation.

Hyra's hands trembled, reaching instinctively for her stomach as if to confirm the truth physically. The realization hung heavy in the air, and uncertainty painted itself across her expression, a mix of anxiety and apprehension evident in every line of her shocked visage.

"Kya hua, Hyra? Tum khush nahi?"

(What happened, Hyra? Aren't you happy?)

"Main... mujhe nahi pata." Hyra gave a clear and honest answer.

(I... I don't know.)

"Zyada mat socho. Sab kuch naya naya haina tumhare liye, lekin fikar mat karo, dheere dheere tumhe khud hi ehsas hoga ki maa banna kitna khoobsurat ehsas hai. Tumhare papa ki death ke baad, mujhe bhi kuch samajh mein nahi araha tha, mera zehen toh kisi cheez ke liye razi hi nahi tha. Lekin jab maine tumhe pehli baar goud mein liya, mujhe aisa laga jaise meri rooh ko sukoon mil gaya. Tumhe bhi dheere dheere ehsas hoga inn sabka." Arzoo was gently and lovingly explaining things to Hyra, tenderly combing through her hair.

(Don't think too much. Everything is new for you, but don't worry; you'll gradually realize how beautiful it is to become a mother. After your father's death, I also didn't understand anything; my mind wasn't ready for anything. But when I held you in my arms for the first time, it felt like my soul found peace. You will also gradually understand all this.)

Before she could say anything else, Kubra arrived with food for Hyra. Happiness was evident on Kubra's face too. Arzoo fed Hyra and suggested her to rest.

•••

Dawar entered his room, the weight of the recent events still lingering on his shoulders. The room was dimly lit, and he noticed Laraib lying on the bed, her back turned towards him. Assuming she was asleep, he turned to leave silently.

Just as he reached the door, he heard a soft voice behind him. "Dawar, kahan the aap?"

(Dawar, where were you?)

Dawar turned back, slightly surprised. "Tum jag rahi ho? Main woh uppar tha, Hyra ki tabiyat theek nahi thi, woh behosh..."

(Are you awake? I was upstairs; Hyra wasn't feeling well; she fainted..)

Laraib sat up abruptly, her eyes piercing into Dawar's. "Hyra ki tabiyat? Aur main yaha beemar hoon uska kya?"

(Hyra is sick? And what about me being sick?)

"Tum uss waqt so rahi thi. Aur Hyra behosh ho gayi, main pareshaan tha uske liye..."

(You were sleeping at that time. And Hyra fainted; I was worried for her.)

"Uske liye pareshaan hone ke liye Hayder bhai hain. Apko kyu uski itni fikar hoti hai?" Laraib asked, getting down from the bed.

(Hayder bhai is there to worry about her. Why do you care so much about her?)

"Behen hai woh meri."

(She's my sister.)

"Sagi behen nahi hai."

(Not a real sister.)

"Hosh mein ho tum, Laraib?" Despite not wanting to, Dawar's voice became stern and loud. Dawar was no child; he understood the nuances behind Laraib's words.

(Are you in your senses, Laraib?)

Restlessness appeared in Laraib's eyes, as Dawar spoke. "Tang achuka hoon main tumhare inn roz roz ke jhagro se."

(I'm tired of your everyday arguments.)

"Tumhe har ek cheez se problem hai. Aisa toh nahi hai tumhe shadi ke baad achanak se pata chala meri koi family hai. Tumhe hamesha se pata tha meri joint family hai, tumhe khudko yaha rehne ke liye, aur sabko apna manna ke liye taiyyar rakhna chahiye tha. Aur agar tum yeh sab nahi kar sakti thi toh tumhe shadi nahi karni chahiye thi. Yeh roz roz ke jhagre main ab mazeed bardasht nahi kar sakta."

(You have a problem with everything. It's not like you didn't know I have a joint family; you should have been prepared to accept it for yourself and consider everyone your own if you wanted to live here. And if you couldn't do all this, you shouldn't have gotten married. I can't tolerate this constant bickering anymore.)

"Ek baar yeh bachha ajaye, hum koi haqmi faisla le lenge."

(Once this child is born, we'll make a final decision.)

"Kya... kya matlab hai apka?" Laraib felt her blood run cold, her breath becoming shallow.

(What... what do you mean?)

"Hum dono mismatch hain. Na main tum meri duniya mein adjust kar sakti ho, na main khudko tumhare hisab se badal sakta hoon." Each word from Dawar was spoken slowly, but with strong conviction in his firm expressions.

(We are mismatched. Neither tou can adjust in my world, nor can I change myself according to you.)

"Da... Dawar..." Laraib tried to stop him, but Dawar didn't stop and walked out of the room.

•••

Arzoo had never been as elated since she heard she was going to be a grandmother. She had always prayed for a happy life for Hyra, and it seemed like her prayers had now been answered.

Gently opening the cupboard door, Arzoo took out a small chest tucked away in a corner. As she retrieves it, a flood of memories washes over her, and she carries it to her bed. Opening the chest, a delicate collection of baby clothes and toys comes into view – remnants of Hyra's childhood, preserved through time.

This brings back memories of Arzoo's own childhood, where she felt lost and unloved.

Arzoo was born after five siblings, and her arrival wasn't met with joy because her father wanted a son. After a year, when her baby brother came along, her mother's attention shifted away, leaving Arzoo with her older sisters. They cared for her, but it wasn't always easy. Sometimes, they were kind, and other times, they were tired and frustrated, pushing her away.

All of this left Arzoo scared and with low self-confidence.

At 18, Arzoo's life took a turn when she got married to Akbar, a decision that proved to be one of the best her parents made for her. Akbar was a caring and loving husband, bringing a sense of joy into her life. However, the happiness was short-lived.

When Arzoo was five months pregnant, tragedy struck as Akbar passed away, leaving her to face the challenges of life as a widow and a soon-to-be single mother.

Broken and unwilling to leave Akbar's home after his passing, Arzoo rejects her parents' attempts to take her away.

"Tum kis haq se yaha rahogi? Jiske sath rishta tha woh mar chuka hai." In this delicate moment, her mother harshly questioned her.

(With what rights are you living here? The one with whom you had a relationship is no more.)

Tears filled Arzoo's eyes. She was still mourning over Akbar's death, wishing he could just come back to her somehow, and her mother's words broke her.

"Azroo ke naam ke sath Akbar ka naam juda hai. Uss haq se rahegi woh." Asif steps forward, and told her. "Aur fir bhi apko tassalli nahi, toh befikar rahe, Arzoo mere liye beti jaisi hai. Shayad issi liye Allah ne mujhe beti nahi di." He put a loving hand on Arzoo's head.

(Arzoo's is connected with Akbar. She'll stay with that right.)

(And still, if you're not satisfied, then be carefree; Arzoo is like a daughter to me. Perhaps that's why Allah didn't give me a daughter.)

However, Asif's love-filled hand didn't grace Arzoo's life for much longer. One day, he experienced intense chest pain, and before reaching the hospital, his life came to an abrupt end.

•••

Societal whispers intensify during Arzoo's period of iddat. Confined to her room, she becomes the subject of gossip, especially concerning her youth and beauty.

Even within the four walls of her room, all these conversations reached Arzoo's ears. It was unclear whether she started to hear more or if people had started speaking louder. The gossip suggested that Arzoo was cursed—first her husband's death, then her father-in-law's demise. Arzoo continued to listen in silence.

Rabia feels insecure and resentful towards Arzoo because some relatives were suggesting that Asim should marry Arzoo.

"Dhyan rakho, Rabi." Rabia's mother warned her.

(Take care, Rabi.)

"Main kya kar sakti hoon isme?" Rabia asked. She has told her mother what Asim's aunt was suggesting to Asiya.

(What can I do in this?)

"Kya nahi kar sakti ho tum? Ghar ki badi bahu ho."

(What can't you do? You're the eldest daughter-in-law of the house.)

"Ammi Arzoo ko bohot manti hain. Akbar ki akhiri nishani jo uske paas hai." Rabia told her.

(Ammi values Arzoo a lot. She has the last symbol of Akbar.)

"Fir toh tum dua karo ussey beta na ho. Abhi sirf rishtedaar keh rahe hain, beta hua toh Asiya bhabhi bhi Asim se yahi kahengi aur tum bas dekhti rehna."

(Then pray that she doesn't have a son. Now it's just relatives saying it; if she'll have a son, Asiya bhabhi will also say the same to Asim, and you just watch.)

"Allah na kare. Main Asim ki zindagi mein dusri aurat nahi bardasht kar paungi. Aur maine toh unhe pehle se ek beta diya hai."

(God forbid. I can't accept another woman in Asim's life. And I've already given him a son.)

"Baat bete ki nahi hai. Baat Akbar ki akhiri nishani aur Arzoo ki hai. Jawan jahan hai, aur hadd se khoobsurat. Tumhe abhi se ehtiyat karna chahiye." Rabia's mother was advising her.

(It's not about having a son. It's about Akbar's child, and Arzoo. She is young and incredibly beautiful. You should be cautious from now on.)

Despite not wanting to, negative thoughts about Arzoo started creeping into Rabia's heart. Rabia, who had been Arzoo's friend since the beginning and a strong support for her after Akbar's death, found her feelings changing with the concern that Asim might actually marry Arzoo, affecting Rabia emotionally.

•••

"Arzoo, iddat ki wajah se tum bahar toh nahi ja sakti, lekin agar tumhara kuch khane ka dil kiya kare toh bata dena. Iss haal mein tumhe achha achha khana chahiye."

(Arzoo, you can't go out due to iddat, but if you feel like eating something, let me know. In this condition, you should eat well.)

Asiya Begum had recently become a widow, too, unable to overcome her husband's death, which struck another blow to her. Yet, she didn't let herself shatter from this grief. She knew that now, she could be the one strong support for Arzoo. During those days, she stayed in Arzoo's room with her. Feeling the pain in her silent sorrow. She made an effort to engage Arzoo in conversation, trying to keep her connected to the world.

"Ammi, mera toh kuch bhi dil nahi karta." Arzoo replied to her with simplicity; her eyes reflected emptiness.

(Ammi, I don't feel like doing anything.)

"Kuch toh mann karta hoga."

(Something must be on your mind.)

"Mera kuch dino se meetha khane ka dil chah raha tha." With a hint of hesitation, Arzoo responded.

(I've been craving sweets for a few days.)

"Pehle batana tha, main abhi Asim se keh kar mangwati hoon."

(You should have told me earlier; I'll ask Asim to bring it for you.)

Asim wasn't at home, so Asiya asked Rabia to call Asim and get some sweets; Arzoo was craving them. Though it saddened Rabia, she didn't show it to her mother-in-law. She made the call and asked Asim to get something sweet.

Arzoo looked at the bowl of gulab jamun held in her hands. It was something she had never liked; it had been Akbar's favourite. Today, Arzoo neither made a face nor threw tantrums. She simply took it as her own preference and ate Akbar's favourite treat in silent acceptance.

•••

Arzoo was blessed with a daughter, and she couldn't hide her disappointment. She had prayed for a son, the one who became her support after Akbar's death, shielding her from the fear of being cast out. Arzoo couldn't even bring herself to look at the face of that little angel. Rabia, who had Uswa just a month ago, now looked after Hyra too. Regardless of everything, Rabia's heart wasn't made of stone. Abandoning such a precious child in hunger was not something she could tolerate.

One day, when Hyra fell asleep, Rabia thought of taking her to Arzoo. It had been weeks, and Arzoo hadn't held Hyra in her arms yet, Asiya was the one who named her. Rabia had just reached the door when she paused upon hearing Asiya's voice; Asiya was discussing Asim's proposal with Arzoo.

Rabia felt her heart sink as if someone had taken her soul. Holding her breath, she waited for Arzoo's response.

"Iska matlab hai iss ghar ki deeware mujhpe tang hone lagi hain?" Arzoo's voice carried a pain. "Kya main iss ghar mein Akbar ki bewa ki hasiyat se nahi reh sakti?"

(Does this mean the doors of this house are closing in on me?)

(Why can't I stay in this house as Akbar's widow?)

"Kab tak? Arzoo, abhi tumhari umr hi kya hai..."

(How long? Arzoo, you are young...)

"Umr ka inn sab se kya lena? Iss umr mein maine itna dekh liya hai, Ammi, ab mazeed kuch aur bardasht karne ki himmat nahi mujhme. Meri zindagi mein kisi bhi naye rishte ki koi zaroorat nahi."

(What does age have to do with it? In this age, I have seen so much, Ammi. I don't have the strength to tolerate anything else in my life. I don't need any new relationships in my life.)

"Shayad abhi yeh sahi waqt nahi." Asiya didn't want to prolong the conversation. "Lekin, Arzoo, Asif ne tumhe beti mana tha. Ussi haq se, tumhe kabhi bhi apni zindagi mein koi kami mehsoos ho, toh mujhe batana. Dusri shadi tumhara haq hai, iski ijazat Allah ne di hai."

(Maybe now is not the right time.)

(But, Arzoo, Asif considered you his daughter. With that right, if you ever feel any lack in your life, let me know. A second marriage is your right, and Allah has given permission for it.)

"Ammi, main dusri shadi nahi karungi. Aur agar karni bhi hogi... toh Asim bhai se nahi." Only Arzoo knew with how much restraint she had uttered the final sentence.

(Ammi, I won't have a second marriage. And if it happens, it won't be with Asim bhai.)

Rabia felt as if someone had poured cold water on her. For months, she had carried hatred towards Arzoo, believing that Arzoo would snatch her husband away. Yet, all these were just rumours. Arzoo had never said or done anything to justify such thoughts. What fault did Arzoo have in all this, as her husband was with her for such a short time?

Rabia looked at Hyra, sleeping in her arms. Embracing Hyra, Rabia made a promise to herself that from now on, she wouldn't let Hyra or Arzoo feel alone.

She became a mother for Hyra and, for Arzoo, an elder sister. She was the one who placed Hyra in Arzoo's arms and questioned why this child should be deprived of a mother's love despite not having a father in this world.

Arzoo, who hadn't seen her daughter's face for a month, suddenly had tears in her eyes upon seeing that little doll. And when Hyra opened her eyes, they looked exactly like Akbar's, Arzoo embraced Hyra in her arms, kissing her tiny hands and feet.

Arzoo wanted to shield Hyra from the harsh realities of the world. She didn't want her daughter to hear things that she had heard and endured. That's why she always kept Hyra acquainted with the truth from a young age.

When Hyra referred to Asim as papa, Arzoo corrected her, saying that her father was Akbar, who had passed away. However, when Hyra called Asim bade papa, he corrected her and insisted on being called Papa.

Whenever Hyra insisted on something, Arzoo would intervene, fearing that the people who are currently showering love might turn away due to unwarranted stubbornness in Hyra. Arzoo wanted to empower Hyra in her own way, but all these things started making Hyra feel insecure, and she had low self-esteem.

Arzoo had never considered Hayder and Hyra together, but circumstances took an unexpected turn. What she once aimed to protect Hyra from, but now Hyra's name was being associated with Hayder, and the talkers were from her own family. All of this shattered Arzoo. Hence, when the proposal for Hayder came for Hyra, she immediately agreed because, in such circumstances, no other good proposal was likely to come for Hyra. Moreover, Hayder was a very suitable match—dignified, trustworthy, respectable, and handsome. He lacked no qualities.

Hyra was not happy after her marriage, but Arzoo was confident that she would eventually accept it. Arzoo, being a widow, had heard numerous judgments from society, as if her husband's death was her fault. She endured all the bitterness, but Hyra couldn't bear it. That's why Arzoo always advised her to make her marriage successful. She knew how society viewed a divorced woman.

Today, when Arzoo heard this good news and saw concern and then happiness in Hayder's eyes for Hyra, she became convinced that Hyra is now settled and happy in her life.

•••

Hayder couldn't wait to go and meet Hyra immediately; it was such big news that he wanted to share with her. However, the crowd around Hyra seemed endless. Everyone was meeting her one by one and then sat there with her, leaving Hayder unable to meet Hyra.

During the night, Hayder went to his room. By that time, Hyra had changed her clothes and was ready to sleep.

"Tum theek ho?" Sitting beside Hyra, Hayder gently took her hand in his and asked.

(Are you okay?)

Surprised, Hyra looked towards Hayder. He appeared content and happy, just as Arzoo told her.

"Jawab do." On her silence, Hayder looked into her eyes.

(Answe me.)

"Theek hoon." Hyra placed her gaze on their intertwined hands and responded.

(I'm fine.)

"Aur mera bachha?" Playfulness sparkled in Hayder's deep eyes.

(And my child?)

"Theek hai."

(Fine.)

Holding her hands, Hayder leaned against the bedpost, and closed his eyes, finding a sense of peace. "Mera bachha, meri tarah hona chahiye."

(My child should be like me.)

"Nahi achha hona chahiye." Without hesitation, Hyra immediately spoke.

(No, he should be good.)

"Main bura hoon?" Hayder's deep black eyes opened at her words, and he cast a glance at Hyra, who was not looking at him but rather at his hand.

(Am I bad?)

"Aap gussa bohot karte hain." Hyra's mood was still off due to Hayder's recent misbehaviour.

(You get angry a lot.)

"Main issey zyada bura ban sakta hoon." Hayder threatened her, but his words and tone were filled only with love. He was just teasing Hyra.

(I can be worse than this.)

"Mujhe ispe koi shakk nahi." Hyra seemed unaffected by anything he said.

(I have no doubt about that.)

"Achha, toh fir main tumhe bura banke dikhau..." Hayder leaned towards her, enveloping her in his arms, and whispered softly,

(Alright, then let me show you by being worse...)

"Mujhe neend arahi hai, lights off kar dein." Hyra distanced herself. Hayder was left bewildered by her reaction.

(I'm feeling sleepy, turn off the lights.)

"Kya hua, Hyra?" This time, Hayder also became serious.

(What happened, Hyra?)

"Shayad apko hua hai, short term memory loss." Hyra mumbles.

(Maybe you have short-term memory loss.)

"Kya? Kya tum ab tak naraz ho?" Hayder remembered the argument between him and Hyra, and he asked.

(What? Are you still upset?)

"Nahi! Gussa, pyar, narazgi, inn sabka haq sirf apko hai. Mujhe toh bas wahi karna hai jaisa aap kahe. Apko chahiye toh main hasu, apko chahiye toh khamosh rahu, apko pasand ho toh taiyyar hoon, warna change karlu. Mujhe kisi cheez ka haq nahi." Hyra expressed, her voice carrying a hint of sorrow.

(No! Anger, love, resentment, all of that is your right. I just have to do what you say. If you want me to laugh, I'll laugh. If you want me to stay silent, I'll stay silent. If you like, I'll dress up, or else, I can change. I have no right over anything.)

"Kaisi baatein kar rahi ho? Maine aisa kab kaha. Hyra, tumhe pura haq hai..."

(What are you talking about? I never said that. Hyra, you have every right...)

"Mujhe baat nahi karni iss barey mein." She said, shutting the door on the conversation.

(I don't want to talk about it.)

"Hyra, aise naraz hoke mat so. Baat suno meri." As usual, Hayder's voice carried a hint of sternness and authority.

(Hyra, don't go to sleep angry like this. Listen to me.)

"Please, Hayder, mujhe baat nahi karni iss barey mein. Aur agar apne aise zidd ki toh main Zara api ya Uswa ke paas chali jaungi sone." And as always, Hyra's huge eyes welled up with tears.

(Please, Hayder, I don't want to talk about it. And if you insist, I'll go to sleep with Zara api or Uswa.)

Unable to withstand her tears, Hayder, conflicted and upset, switched off the lights, deciding to address the matter the next day, leaving the room cloaked in tension.

•••

It was quite late at night when Uswa quietly got up from her bed. The house was in deep silence, to the extent that even the sound of a falling needle could be distinctly heard. She couldn't wait until tomorrow. She had to meet Hyra, so she quietly planned to meet her without Rabia's knowledge.

Uswa ascended the stairs, her dupatta draped gracefully over her head, casting shadows in the quiet house. She moved upstairs with quiet eagerness, the anticipation of meeting Hyra this late, adding a subtle glow to her eyes.

"Kon hai waha?" Uswa froze on the stairs as Rafey's voice echoed through the dimly lit corridor. The unexpected encounter sent a wave of irritation through her, and she closed her eyes briefly, grappling with the dilemma of revealing herself or slipping away unnoticed. The darkness and her veiled face provided a temporary shield.

(Who's there?)

"Hello?" Trying to rub the sleep from his eyes, Rafey peered at the small figure wrapped in a large veil at this late hour. It was definitely a girl, judging by the petite height and slender frame. Only Uswa and Hyra were this petite. And Hyra was sleeping. So Uswa?

Rafey approached the switchboard to turn on the lights.

"Rafey, light on mat kariyega." Uswa had no choice but to speak now. Rafey had caught her, and if he turned on the lights, others would wake up too.

(Rafey, don't turn on the light.)

"Uswa? Tum... pagal ho, iss waqt yaha... mujhse milne ayi ho?" In one sentence, Rafey experienced a range of emotions—initial surprise, followed by frustration, and then a moment of happiness.

(Uswa? Are you...crazy? You came here at this time... to meet me?)

"Bilkul bhi nahi." Uswa made a face, causing Rafey's entire moment of happiness to burst like a balloon. "Main Hyra se milne ayi hoon." Uswa had composed herself now. She knew Rafey wouldn't reveal her arrival to anyone, and she calmly responded.

(Not at all.)

(I came to meet Hyra.)

"Raat ke iss waqt tum Hyra se milne ayi ho? Kis khushi mein?" Doubt crossed Rafey's mind. Well, there was no doubt that Uswa had an unstable mind. He was delighted at the thought that Uswa had come to meet him because of his threat.

(At this time of night, you came to meet Hyra? For what?)

"Dheere bole. Kisi ne iss waqt yaha hume yaha dekh liya toh kya sochenge?" Uswa hushed him.

(Speak softly. What will people think if they see us here at this time?)

"Jo bhi sochenge ussey toh behtar hoga jo tum Hyra se milne ayi ho." Rafey grumbles.

(Whatever they think will be better than what you're here for.)

"Waise tum kyu ayi ho ussey milne? Aisi kya emergency?"

(Why did you come to meet her? What's the emergency?)

"Itni badi news hai, mujhe milna hai ussey. Hyra ki har khushi sabse pehle main hi celebrate karti hoon uske sath, chahe uska birthday ho, ya woh pass ho college mein. Ab itni badi news aur main kal milu? Sabse akhiri mein? Nahi, yeh mujhe bardasht nahi. Samajh rahe hain aap?" Uswa tried to make him understand.

(It's big news, I need to meet her. I celebrate every happiness of Hyra's first, whether it's her birthday or she passes in college. Now, with such big news, should I meet her tomorrow? Last of all? No, I can't tolerate that. Are you understanding?)

"Haan, samajh gaya ki tum puri pagal ho."

(Yes, I understand that you're completely crazy.)

"Mera dimagh na kharab karein." Now, Uswa forgot that she could be caught. Raising her voice, she said,

(Don't mess with my mind.)

"Dheere bolo." Rafey reminded her.

(Speak slowly.)

"Achha hatiye, mujhe Hyra se milna hai."

(Okay, move aside, I need to meet Hyra.)

"Theek hai, aur sath mein Hayder bhai ko bhi samjha dena raat ke iss waqt tum Hyra ki khushi share karne ayi ho." Rafey's eyes flickered with a mixture of concern and amusement as he advised,

(Fine, and also make Hayder bhai understand that at this time of night, you've come to share Hyra's happiness.)

"Hayder bhai ko kyu samjhaungi main?" She inquired, her curiosity evident.

(Why should I make Hayder bhai understand?)

"Kyuki tum unhi ke room mein ja rahi ho." Rafey shrugged his shoulder.

(Because you're going to his room.)

"Arey toh kya Hayder bhai pure time room mein rehte hain?" She questioned, her voice barely above a whisper.

(Oh, so does Hayder bhai stay in his room all the time?)

"I don't know, Uswa, lekin jaha tak mujhe lagta hai, normal log iss waqt apne room mein aram karte hain, shayad iss wajah se..." There was sarcasm in his tone.

(I don't know, Uswa, but as far as I think, normal people relax in their rooms at this time, maybe that's why...)

"Oh, matlab mera yaha ana waste hua." Uswa's shoulders dropped. And her sentence made Rafey's eyes wide.

(Oh, so my coming here was a waste.)

"Achha sune..." Rafey had opened his mouth to say something, but Uswa paid no attention and began speaking. "Kal aap sabse pehle Hyra ko mere paas bhejiyega. Raat main kisi tarah bardasht kar le rahi hoon, subah nahi karungi toh aap Hyra se kahiyega woh sabse pehle mere paas aye, function ke time nahi."

(Listen...)

(Tomorrow, you'll send Hyra to me first. I'm tolerating tonight somehow; I won't do it in the morning. You tell Hyra to meet me first thing in the morning, not during the function.)

Uswa left after properly instructing him. She didn't inquire about him or ask how he was. Rafey stood there in a state of shock. What a girl Uswa was—this late at night, draped in a long dupatta, she had come to meet Hyra, showing no regard for her future husband.

Then, a faint smile touched Rafey's lips. It's these very antics of Uswa that make him enamoured.

•••

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over Mirza house.

"Kal raat mujhe bada ajeeb khwab aya." At that moment, only Shahzaib and Rafey were at the breakfast table when suddenly Shahzaib spoke,

(Last night, I had a strange dream.)

"Maine Uswa ko khwab mein dekha..." Deep in thought, Shahzaib said, as if he was trying to recall the dream. And Rafey, who was leisurely having black coffee at that moment, paused.

(I saw Uswa in the dream...)

"Balki woh shayad tumhe daat rahi thi." Shahzaib still wasn't paying much attention to Rafey and continued with his own thoughts.

(And she was scolding you, maybe.)

Rafey choked on black coffee, causing him to cough forcefully. Shahzaib looked at him suspiciously on this.

"Tumne aisa kya kiya jo Uswa tumhe mere khwab mein akey daat rahi thi?"

(What did you do that Uswa scolded you in my dream?)

•••

Others - our baby should have your eyes.

Our baby should have your smile

Meanwhile Hayder bhai - mera bachha meri tarah hona chahiye

🤦🏻‍♀️ Hayder bhai aap kya cheez ho?

Khair, how's the chapter?

-Ufaq

And oh, I always forgot. I draw AI version of Hayder and Hyra. They aren't exactly what I have in my mind for them, but theek thak hain so I'm sharing it here.