Maryam and Aahil

Chapter 18| Unveiling Love

The village festival arrived in a flourish of vibrant colors and heartwarming moments. Maryam stepped onto the stage, her attire a vision in white-an elegant anarkali that seemed to shimmer under the festive lights. Her speech echoed with memories of her father, a poignant tribute that touched the hearts of everyone gathered.

"Through every experience in this village," Maryam's voice resonated, "I've unearthed the essence of community, culture, and unity. This festival has unveiled a world of traditions, values, and friendships that have etched their mark on my soul."

Applause rippled through the air as Maryam's words flowed, a testament to her journey of transformation. Her speech captured unity, the breaking of barriers, and the celebration of diversity. As her eyes met Aahil's, standing amidst the crowd, she couldn't help but notice the intensity in his gaze.

As the festival's events unfolded, Aahil's eyes remained steadfast on Maryam. The theme of the festival, "Stages of Love," seemed to reflect their evolving relationship, drawing his attention to the subtle crescendos of emotion.

The recitation of poetry was particularly poignant, the verses resonating with his heart as they depicted two souls whose paths were never destined to intertwine. Yet, against all odds, fate intervened, weaving them together in a tapestry of love. Their journey was marked by disagreements, yet beneath the surface lay a profound connection that defied reason.

*Yeh ishq nahin aasaan, bas itna samajh lijiye,*

*Ek aag ka darya hai, aur doob ke jaana hai.*

"This love is no easy feat, understand it thus," the poet's voice reverberated, "It's a river of fire, and we must embrace its depths."

Aahil found himself drifting into thoughts of his interactions with Maryam-moments of disagreement, camaraderie, and laughter. He remembered her smile, her wit, and the fire that seemed to ignite whenever she spoke passionately about something.

The dance performance that followed stole his breath. Maryam moved with a grace that mirrored her spirit, her energy contagious as she swayed to the rhythm of the music. Her smile illuminated the stage, and Aahil felt his heart race in response.

And then came the pivotal moment-a qawwali performance that seemed to echo their unspoken emotions. The singers sang of love's journey, of hearts that quarreled and tangled, yet found their way back to each other.

*Jab se tune mujhe deewana bana rakha hai,*

*Mohabbat mein aashiqana bana rakha hai.*

*Ever since you've made me your admirer,*

*In love, you've turned me into an ardent lover.*

Aahil's gaze drifted to Maryam, his heart recognizing the truth hidden within the words. He watched her amidst the crowd, her eyes shining with enthusiasm, her spirit vibrant as she danced to the melodies of the qawwali.

The festival continued with its fair, stalls lined with wares that tempted both Maryam and Aahil. He observed her playful determination as she engaged in a game stall, refusing to leave until she emerged victorious. And when her focus momentarily shifted, he slyly moved her target, ensuring her success.

Amidst laughter, he guided her through the market, helping her try on bangles, and playfully teasing her about the colors that suited her. He chose chudi sets in various hues for her, his fingers brushing against her wrist as he helped her slip them on.

As they navigated the crowd, Aahil's heart danced to an unspoken rhythm. He purchased a delicate jhumki for her, a gesture that went beyond friendship. He found himself drawn to her laughter, her spirit, and the way she seemed to light up the world around her.

The dholki session was a riot of joy, with Maryam fully immersed in the festivities. Aahil watched as she joined the dancers, her energy contagious, and her smile infectious. For a moment, he found himself lost in the sight of her, his heart racing to the beat of the dholki.

As the sun began to set, they gathered to savor the festival's delicious offerings. Aahil watched Maryam enjoy the flavors of the village's cuisine, her laughter mingling with the aroma of biryani, tikka, and gujhiya. It was a moment of shared enjoyment, of coming together as a community.

As they made their way back in the car, Maryam's heart was heavy with the realization that her time in the village was drawing to a close. She gazed out the window, her thoughts a medley of fond memories and a sense of farewell.

____

The moon hung low in the sky, casting its gentle glow over the village. Maryam sat on the familiar bench, her thoughts adrift like the shimmering stars above. She wasn't alone for long; the sound of footsteps drew her attention, and she looked up to find Aahil settling beside her.

"What are you thinking about?" he asked, his voice a soft murmur in the night.

She smiled, her gaze returning to the sky. "The sky is so clear here. In Delhi, I can barely see any stars."

Aahil leaned back, his eyes tracing the constellations. "Are you falling for the village?"

She chuckled softly. "Who wouldn't? It's beautiful."

A comfortable silence settled between them, the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft hush of the night surrounding them.

"Then why don't you stay here a little longer?" Aahil's voice held a hint of wistfulness.

Maryam turned her head to look at him, a question in her eyes. "I don't have any reason to stay."

His gaze held hers, a mix of emotions flickering within. "Daadi would miss you."

"I will call her," she said, her tone gentle.

"Ayesha likes you," he continued, his eyes searching hers.

She raised an eyebrow. "She's your childhood friend."

"Anyways, I have to leave for London in a few days. I've promised Steven."

Aahil paused, then nodded. "Wow, are you guys getting married?"

She sighed, her gaze turning distant. "Yes, we've planned to."

"Well, in that case, I wish you a happy marital life"

"Thanks," she replied, a hint of something unspoken in her tone. "What are your future plans?"

Maryam tilted her head, studying him curiously. "Are you going to propose to Ayesha?"

Aahil's brow furrowed, and he looked away. "No, I'm not."

Her curiosity grew. "Why not? Isn't she your type? And don't you guys love each other?"

"I used to like her at one point, but not anymore."

"Oh," Maryam responded, her interest piqued.

"In fact, if you want the truth," Aahil began, his voice low, "then let me tell you, Maryam."

Her heart skipped a beat, and she waited for him to continue.

"I always thought we were misfits," he confessed, "You're not the type of person I could like. You're stubborn, rebellious, you refuse to listen to anyone, and you can be extremely rude at times. But even with all that, I can't stop caring about you."

Maryam's breath caught, his words hanging in the air like a secret she had always known but had never dared to acknowledge.

"Why are you a part of my reality and my dreams?" he whispered, his gaze locked onto hers, vulnerability shimmering within.

She stood up abruptly, her heart racing. Aahil caught her wrist before she could walk away. "Maryam, please don't go."

Her emotions churned, her thoughts a tempestuous sea. She looked down at him, uncertainty etching her features.

Without a word, she pulled her wrist free and retreated back to her room, his words echoing in her mind. His confession was like a whirlwind, stirring up emotions she had long tried to suppress. As she lay in her bed, his voice replayed over and over again, a whisper in the night that seemed to be unlocking something within her, something she wasn't quite ready to confront.