Author's Note
Assalamwalaikum, everyone! It's finally here, the last chapter of AeI. Thank you so much to those of you who have joined me on this journey. Many of you have been reading since I started this story back in March 2022. It's been over a year, and I'm appreciative to have had the support, patience, and interest of every single one of you. I thank you all for making me smile with your votes and comments, which really motivated me to continue writing, and for letting this story be an escape for me. I will really miss writing about Heer and Salaar. I really enjoyed their softness and vulnerability towards each other as best friends, childhood best friends to lovers being my favorite trope.
I like to continue on with stories of my core characters that get introduced in my other books, like how I did with Zahid and Ayaara after DoL, so it's kind of weird for me to close the world of AeI so soon. Perhaps if I come up with a story for one of the other characters in AeI one day, we might get to revisit them. But for now, I wanted to change up the scenery and cast with my new story Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha, which I've already started writing. If you haven't checked that out already, I would love it if you did!
Please enjoy as we embark on our last ride of Azmaish-e-Ishq. Once again, thank you all for the love, interest, and appreciation. I hope to continue seeing you read and support my work. Please keep me in your duas, stay well, and be kind to yourself and others.
Lots of love 💫❤️ ChalWahanJaateHain
🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
🎶"Zara kabhi meri nazaar se khudko dekh bhi; hai chaand mein bhi daag, par na tujh mein ek bhi. Khud pe haqq mera tere hawaale kardiya.
Just look at yourself through my eyes sometime; the moon has blemishes, but you do not have a single one. I have given you every right on myself."🎶
- Tere Hawaale | Amitabh Bhattacharya | Arijit Singh & Shilpa Rao
Heer's P.O.V.
I was sat up in bed and had just switched on the TV when I heard my window push open.
A smile erupted on my lips at the sight of my husband. A similar expression graced his face when he saw my extended arms. He climbed onto my bed and laid in front of me with his head on my lap. My arms wrapped around his chest as I leaned down and pecked his cheek. "I missed you, ruhum."
He took my right hand and kissed my palm before placing it back. "I missed you too, baby. I just got free."
After he'd given Mr. Wilmore a call to say he couldn't go to Los Angeles, he went home to greet his parents. After mine arrived home, we all made dinner plans and went out to eat. Once we reached home, he caught up with his parents then finally come over.
My fingers combed through his silky hair as I gazed at his beautiful amber-green eyes. "Go to sleep, balim. You must be tired. I'm feeling sleepy too."
He got up and turned off the lights and my TV then got into bed next to me. He extended an arm, and I nestled into him with my head on his shoulder, my arm slung around him. He pecked my lips then my forehead before pulling me closer. "I wish you would come back to London with me tomorrow, love."
I had a meeting scheduled from weeks in advance with the decorators this Friday, so I would be going back home to him on Saturday instead of tomorrow, which was Wednesday. But it was only going to be for a weekend. It was going to be the last two days we were going to have to ourselves before our wedding festivities start next month; I was going to come back to Manchester on Monday to be in town for last-minute wedding preps and meetings.
I moved my hand to his cheek, brushing my fingers through his scruff. "Me too, canım, but it'll be Saturday before you know it."
"I spent so many days without you, Heer. It was hell. I missed you so much. I can't stand distance when it comes to you."
"I can't either when it comes to you, Sally." I then tried to lighten the mood, "But they say absence makes the heart grow fonder-"
"I love you more and more everyday. I don't need your absence for that. It kills me."
I hugged him, murmuring, "No more distance or absence after our walima." My eyes lit up as I looked at him, gushing quietly, "The next time you will come back to Manchester, it'll be for our wedding. I'm so excited. I can't wait."
His fingers brushed some of my hair behind my ear as he gazed at my eyes enamored, "Me neither, love."
After Salaar left, the rest of the week flew by. I started my drive to London early in the morning on Saturday and arrived by noon. Salaar was already in the parking lot waiting for me to pull in.
I quickly got out of the car and greeted him with a tight hug and sweet kiss. "Canım benim," I smiled. "I missed you."
(My darling.)
He returned the smile and leaned in for another kiss. "I missed you too, sweetheart." He opened the backseat and grabbed my duffle bag, "How was the drive?"
"Not bad. Surprisingly not too much traffic."
"I'm glad." His hand slid into mine as we made our way to the lift.
When we reached the door of our flat, I couldn't help but smile and feel grateful as I watched my Sally unlock the door. After the situation we were in the last time we were both in London, I didn't think we would be together anymore, but here we were, stronger than ever.
He led me towards our bedroom and set my bag against the wall. I quickly freshened up then joined him at the dining table. He had made the paninis that I liked and explained that he wanted to keep lunch a little light because he wants to go out for dinner.
After I washed the dishes, we both prayed then went to the sofa to watch a drama. He laid down and patted the space next to him adorably. I laid down next to him and couldn't help but giggle when his right arm caged me to him tightly as though I was his cuddle pillow. We fell asleep while watching TV, but when I woke up, he was gone.
"Sally?" I called, rubbing the sleep away from my eyes while I made my way to the bedroom. "Neredesin? Sal-"
(Where are you?)
As the sound of the shower met my ears, my orbs fell on a deep red dress with glitter patterns on the bed. A grin erupted on my lips. It was beautiful.
I glanced at the clock. It was late into the evening.
I quickly changed into the dress and began dusting on some makeup— foundation, eyeliner, and lipstick. As I applied the matching red rouge on my lips, I did a double-take as Sally stepped out of the bathroom. He was dressed in a black dress shirt and dark trousers, and his hair had a slight touch of pomade. In other words, he looked utterly handsome.
We both stared at each other, captivated, until he beat me to it, "You look beautiful."
I stood up and faced him. "Thank you," I tugged at the sleeves of my dress shyly. "You also look very handsome."
He smiled and walked over then took my hand. "Did you like the dress?"
"I loved it, Sally. You didn't have to-"
"I wanted to."
I smiled and leaned for a peck.
"Are you ready, love?" he asked while reaching for his watch on the dressing table.
I took it from him and clipped it around his wrist, "Almost." I then searched for my hair clip, "Should I leave my hair down or clip it?"
"Down."
I looked at him through the dressing table mirror to find him already gazing back at me with endearing eyes. I returned the same look, "Okay."
And I loved that he loved me most naturally, no makeup and hair down. He really knew how to make me feel special.
He drew closer and wrapped his arms around my waist. He leaned in and pressed his lips to my neck. "Let's go?"
"Are you sure you don't want to try braiding my hair before we go?" I teased, lifting an eyebrow.
"You might go bald before the walima in that case, love. I'll probably tangle it so bad that you won't have any choice but to cut all your hair off," he chuckled.
"If I went bald, then would you go bald for the walima too?"
"This feels like a test."
"Consider it one."
"You sound like those girlfriends that ask their boyfriends if they would still like them if they would turn into a worm."
"Haan toh? Jawaab do."
(Yes, and? Answer)
He sported a faux serious expression, "Yes. Yes, I would."
We both burst into laughter before he held me more firmly, pecking my neck once more. I placed my hands on his arms, snuggling into him. "Aise sawaal puchchna mera haq hai. Girlfriend nahin hoon main tumhari-"
(I have the right to ask you such questions. I'm not your girlfriend, I'm your-)
"Biwi ho tum meri," he grinned. He twirled me around then slung his arm around my waist as he led me downstairs to the car, "Bald, worm, caterpillar, bird, butterfly, ya spider bhi ban jao, tab bhi tumhe pyaar karoonga."
(You're my wife. Even if you were to go bald, become a worm, caterpillar, bird, butterfly, or spider, I would still love you.)
"Sally? Ek baat kahoon?"
(Can I tell you something?)
"Kya?"
(What?)
"Mujhe toh spideron se sakt nafrat hai. Tum agar spider ban jaaoge toh sab khatam."
(I have absolute hatred for spiders. If you turn into a spider, then it's all over.)
"What?"
"You said you wanted to hear it!"
"Heer Qureshi, if I turned into a spider, you wouldn't love me anymore?!"
"Now who's sounding like those girlfriends?!"
"Answer the question, machchar!"
"Fine! I would!"
After a romantic meal at an upscale Japanese sushi restaurant, we returned home. Before I could even finish taking off my heels near the front door, Sally quickly kicked off his own shoes and stormed into the bedroom, "Mujhe kamre mein kuch kaam hai."
(I have some work to do in the bedroom.)
"Kya kaam?" I called, but he had already closed the door.
(What work?)
When I reached the bedroom, I found the door had been locked. "Sally, what are you doing? Why did you lock the door, canım?"
"Just a few minutes, baby."
"Few minutes for what? What are you up to in there?"
"Sabr ka phal meetha hota hai."
(The fruit of patience is sweet.)
I groaned internally. At least I was locked outside of the room rather than inside unlike when he surprised me on my birthday. Wait. Was he surprising me with something?
I kept quiet and let him do his thing until I finally heard him say, "Okay, you can come in now."
I turned the knob to find the door now unlocked. As I swung the door open slowly, my jaw fell at the beautiful sight. The lights were dimmed. The side tables, dresser, and the dressing table were adorned with lit red candles. There were a few red streamers and balloons against the ceiling. Last but not least, our smiling giraffe plushie projected a galaxy of stars above us.
He must have taken the stuffed toy back from my bedroom when he was in Manchester earlier this week. The sneaky man.
"What is this, Salaar?" I asked in awe, taking in the decorations while walking over towards him.
"It's our last weekend together for a while. I want to make it special." He tapped on his phone then tossed it onto the bed after selecting a song to play. It happened to be one of our favorite Bollywood songs.
I wrapped my arms around his neck as he placed his hands on my waist before we began swaying to the melody, "Are we dancing under the stars, Mr. Riaz?"
He tilted his head, taking in my face admiringly, "That was the plan, Mrs. Riaz."
"Well, I love it. And I love the decorations, ruhum. It's beautiful." I got on the tip of my toes and pecked his lips.
"I'm happy you liked it, sweetheart."
I smiled then squinted jestingly, "I was expecting something else when I came in, if I'm being honest."
"And what was that?"
"I thought you were finally going to show me your paintings."
"Oh," I could see the nervousness settle in his orbs, "Those. They're not that good-"
"I've already seen them, Sally."
His eyes widened, "What?"
"Not on purpose! I dropped something on the floor next to the bed and when I went to grab it, I found them under the bed." I searched his eyes, speaking earnestly, "I don't know why you're saying they aren't good. They're amazing, Salaar. I love them. Especially the one with the gold paint. I'm honored you chose to make me the subject of your art, that you chose to use your talent on crafting pieces on me."
"I was afraid of what you would think, about the fact that I paint you," he relaxed, "But I'm glad you liked them."
"Not like. Love." I rested my cheek against his chest as we got lost into the music. "Also, every night with you is special, Sally."
"It's you who makes it special," he lowered his head and pressed a kiss to my head.
As the next song played, he spun me away from him then pulled me back before dipping me. "Not bad," I giggled.
"I've been practicing," he said after he held me to him.
"Really?"
"No."
"Pagal aadmi," I laughed.
(Crazy man.)
He twirled me until my back was to him and we continued swaying like that.
"I'm not worried about our first dance if we dance like this," I murmured, gazing up at him with adoration.
"It comes naturally with you in my arms."
The way he was so smooth, my heart skips beats left and right.
He spun me out again then jerked me towards him, his hands resting on my waist. I placed my palms on his chest, gazing up at his gorgeous eyes.
"When we got married, your Baba gave your hand to me, and we became husband and wife... But I never got to hear those words that I've longed to hear from you, just for me... Those two words that make me yours and you mine forever."
A shy smile graced my lips as I lowered my gaze. I fall more and more in love with him every time I look into his eyes. This man was so romantic and knew just how to make my heart flutter. "Qubool hai," my smile grew as I watched his do the same, "Qubool hai. Qubool hai."
(I accept.)
"Do you also accept to let me love you forever?"
"Qubool hai," my eyes began watering at the sweetest man in front of me.
"To love me forever?"
"Qubool hai."
"To be mine forever? To be by my side every step of this life and in the hereafter?"
I got on the tip of my toes and kissed his lips slowly. "Qubool hai, ruhum."
He smiled and leaned in for another kiss. After he pulled back, I took his hands and led him to the end of the bed. We both sat down, our knees touching, and I held his hands on my lap, my thumbs running over his fingers. A nervous smile graced my lips as I began, my gaze lowered, "With our walima around the corner... I want to finally tell you something."
Confusion pulled his eyebrows together slowly.
"Months ago, you asked me," I wet my lips, "why I agreed to marry you."
He nodded, searching my eyes.
"It's because..." I lifted my gaze to his, "It's because my Rab chose you for me."
I saw the happiness spread in his eyes, though he was still unsure of what I meant.
"During the days leading up to my wedding with Kamran, he began acting a little distant and different. I obviously didn't know why at the time. I remember feeling unsure but always tried to convince myself that he was okay with everything and everything would be okay. One night, however, I decided to pray salat ul-istikhaara, begging for signs of clarity, guidance, and reassurance. That same night, I had a dream."
Salaar's eyes twinkled with interest.
My dream replayed in my mind clear as day as I described it to him. "I was sitting on my knees in front of a stream. I began looking into the water and noticed a blurry reflection of a tall man standing behind me. He was wearing a grey shirt and dark trousers. Before I could react, he pushed me into the river and I began floating away. I was panicking and struggling for air while the water pushed me downstream. Finally, I had washed up onto a small shore made of pebbles that led into a beautiful field of flowers. I got up and began running through the field towards someone. When I looked down, I noticed I was dry and wearing a white and gold bridal gharara suit. There was a smile on my face, and then the sun was shining so bright, making it hard to see. I remember shouting, 'Wait up!' with my arm reaching out towards this man who was wearing white pants and a light gold sherwani. His arm was stretched out towards me with his palm open. I suddenly heard this voice that said, 'The heavens have been waiting for this for so long.' And I just knew they were talking about my union with that man. I finally caught up to him and placed my hand on his, but before I could even see him, he turned his face and began leading me up some stairs. As he helped me up the steps, I remember closing my eyes and smiling as I took in the scent of his cologne. It was a familiar scent. I felt so at ease. Then when I looked down, I realized the staircase he and I were ascending was made of clouds and we were going up towards the bright light glowing down on us. And then I woke up."
My husband gazed at me with amazement.
"I'd taken the nature and brightness as positive signs about Kamran and I, but it wasn't until the day of the nikkah did I realize I had read all the signs wrong. When I read your paper balls that afternoon, it all clicked. When you came in through my window in the morning, as destiny would have it, you were wearing the same light gold sherwani and white pants that I had seen in my dream. Your cologne that I smelled on you that day, it was the same oh-so familiar scent I had experienced in my dream. I hadn't realized it sooner, but it would have been foolish of me to have denied that it was you holding my hand in my dream, not Kamran. All the events guided me towards you, everything pointed towards you, that you are the one for me. That my Rab chose you for me."
Salaar listened intently, his beautiful orbs glistening with emotion.
"And I decided to trust His choice... When everything I knew became foreign to me, His signs about you, His Will of me marrying you was the only clarity remaining. It was the only thing I was certain of. When Dadu asked me to marry you, I agreed. And it was the best decision I ever made."
He smiled, taking my breath away.
"Kamran pushed me into such depths of darkness that made me feel like I was drowning like in my dream, but you, Salaar, you took me by the hand and brought me into the light." I intertwined my fingers with his, expressing emotionally, "Seni son nefesime kadar seveceğim. Seni çok seviyorum."
( I will love you till my last breath. I love you a lot.)
He pulled me closer, cradling my cheek, "Seni seviyorum, my love. I love you." He leaned closer, murmuring the words straight from deep within his heart, "You mean the universe to me. I see the world in your eyes."
We both closed the gap between us with a kiss full of emotion and passion. The velvety caresses from each other's lips only left us wanting more and more. Tugs and pulls just to feel each other even closer, to end any distance between us, rendered me laying down with him hovering me as we lost ourselves in the captivating, mesmerizing kisses.
"Are you sure you want to do this now?" he asked, breathless.
I knew our reception was only weeks away, but I didn't want to wait anymore. I was ready. I wanted to become his, I wanted to become one with him like never before, I wanted to convey my love like never before.
"I'm sure," I told him before reconnecting my lips with his.
Salaar's P.O.V.
"Kal tumhara mayoun hai, lekin phir bhi mujhe tumhe sone se pehle pani peene ki yaad dilana pad rahi hai. Kya karoon main tumhara, Salaar?" Ami tsked.
(Tomorrow is your mayoun, yet I am still having to remind you to drink water before going to sleep. What am I going to do with you, Salaar?)
The month had finally passed, and I'd just arrived home in Manchester the night before mine and Heer's mayoun ceremony. After having a late dinner, Ami was seeing me off to bed as she does when I come to visit.
"Thanks for the reminder, Ami," I chuckled before taking a sip from the glass resting on my computer table.
"Good. Now go to bed, beta. Halima is expecting us for breakfast then the decorators are going to come to our house not too long after. Heer has been eager to see you too."
And I've been as eager to see my butterfly.
"Yes, Ami. Goodnight," I switched my lamp off then walked over towards my bed.
"Goodnight, meri jaan," she closed the door, and I heard her footsteps fade as she went to her bedroom.
I immediately rushed to my window and climbed out. I crossed the beam then knocked on my blue-eyed fairy's window.
"Balım!" she squealed while pushing the glass pane up. She stepped back to make room for me then jumped into my arms. "I missed you!"
I gave her a long kiss before caging her in my embrace. "Me too, baby." I lifted her up and spun when she took my name in a more serious tone, "Salaar."
I put her down as she squirmed out of my arms. "What's wrong, love?" I studied the queasy look on her face.
"Nothing, ruhum," she swallowed hard, "I guess I was getting dizzy. I think I'm just feeling a little tired. Remember how I told you the decorators for tomorrow came to drop their materials at your house? They were here for a few hours, so I was overseeing that, and then I had to help Anne make some gift packages."
My hand caressed her cheek. "You look a little tired, sweetheart. You've been so busy with all the preparations." I rested my hands on her waist, "I'm sorry I haven't been able to help as much as you must've wanted me to-"
"No no, Sally. You were always available by phone and you paid for so many of things even when I told you not to. You even came here straight after work." She made her way back into my arms, "I'm so happy your winter holidays from work have started. And I'm so excited about tomorrow! It's going to be so much fun." I could feel her leaning her weight against me. She must be exhausted.
"Me too, love. Let's lay down and talk?"
She nodded and guided me to her bed. After giving me a debrief of her day and gushing about how she invited Hizan so Haniya can have him there at our wedding festivities, my butterfly knocked out within minutes.
Heer's P.O.V.
"Meri Heer toh heeron jaisi chamakti hain hamesha, iska toh koi zaroorat hi nahin hain," Ami said sweetly while applying some haldi (turmeric paste) on my cheeks.
(My Heer always shines like diamonds, there isn't even a need for this)
Salaar and I were sat on a luxury bench in his backyard, which is where our mayoun ceremony was being held. I was donning a bright yellow lehenga with a fuchsia dupatta and white and fuchsia floral jewelry. My Froggie was wearing a crème sherwani and trousers with a matching yellow vest. I'd put on one of my floral bracelets on him to be cute, but the adorable man continued wearing it to make me happy.
"Aur mera Salaar sooraj ke tarah roshan karta hai har waqt," Anne smiled while rubbing the paste on my husband's face.
(And my Salaar glows like the sun all the time)
"Sooraj bana doon main tumhe, Bhai?" Daniaal teased, threatening to stick his entire hand into the bowl of haldi.
(Should I turn you into the sun, Bhai?)
Sally shot him a glare, making his younger cousin lift his palms up in surrender.
"Heer, dekho kaun aayi hai," Baba announced jovially while entering into the backyard.
(Heer, look who has come)
"Assalamwalaikum," Salaar and I greeted Bilquis Chachi with smiles after she approached us.
"Walaikumsalam," she enthused. "Kitne pyaare lag rahe hai dono. Ma Sha Allah. Kisi ke nazar na lage."
(Both of them are looking so lovely... May no one's evil eye come to them)
"Kamran nahin aaye?" I asked, glancing at the doorway.
(Kamran didn't come?)
Sometime within the last several weeks, Kamran had visited my father and apologized and thanked him for everything. Baba was appreciative of it and saw his sincerity. Bilquis Chachi had also settled into Manchester just in time for the wedding ceremonies.
Chachi's smile faltered before she attempted to bolster it, "Nahin. Uska daftaar mein kuch kaam aa gaya tha toh usko rukna pada."
(No. Something came up at his office, so he had to stay back.)
Salaar and I glanced at each other but did nothing except for nod politely. It was winter holidays; his office wasn't open. But I understood. It wouldn't be easy for him. And after everything we've all been through, I only wish things start to look up for him.
"Aap bhi lagayein," Anne urged her.
(You too apply some on them.)
Bilquis Chachi rubbed the paste on our faces while giving us heart-felt wishes, "May Allah SWT bless you both with unmeasurable happiness and blessings."
I gave her hand a squeeze endearingly before she went to go sit with Dadu and Dadi, who had flown in for the wedding, along with the rest of the guests.
"Let's take a group picture before we start eating? My lipstick will smudge at the sides as usual then the pictures won't come out nice," Seher Api suggested with a giggle, getting up from her chair with her hand on her large bump.
Umair Bhai and his mother had accompanied Seher Api to the function. Hina was said to have other plans, according to her mother who was visibly annoyed about having to attend mine and Salaar's wedding events.
"Oh, I feel that! Let's finish taking the pictures first," Haniya nodded eagerly. She then scowled when Hizan, who was standing next to her, chuckled at her seriousness about getting the pictures over with. They made a cute couple. He was obviously mad about her, as was she, but she attempted to play cool and hard to get.
After pictures, our friends and relatives dispersed to eat dinner while Salaar and I watched our parents tend to the guests.
"Let's take a selfie, ruhum."
He smiled and lifted his phone in front of our faces. Upon clicking a few pictures, he scrolled through them, "Select which one you like the most, baby. I'll put it on my story."
I leaned closer excitedly, "Mm, the fourth one! You look so cute in that one."
"Yeh lo, dulha-dulhan ke liye khaana pesh hai," Abu joked while setting a platter of food in front of us.
(Here, the food has been presented for the bride and groom.)
"Hum le lete, Abu, par shukriya," Salaar said.
(We would've taken it, Abu, but thank you.)
"Haan, Abu. Aap ne kyun taqleef ki?"
(Yes, Abu. Why did you take the trouble?)
"Koi taqleef nahin tha, beta. Tumhare Ami aur Anne ne bhejwai hain. Tum dono ki toh gaal dukh rahe honge muskarakar tasveeron ke liye. Ab thode se kha loge toh aur energy aa jaayega."
(It was no trouble at all, dear. Your Ami and Anne sent it. Both of your cheeks must be hurting from smiling for the pictures. If you eat a little, you will get more energy.)
My husband and I laughed before Abu left us alone.
"We think we're alone, but are we truly alone though, love? There must be a cameraman somewhere zooming in on us while we eat."
I laughed, "And the footage is going to be just close-ups of us eating for 2 minutes straight."
Sally chuckled while lifting a spinach pakora to my lips.
I didn't know why but something about it made me not want to eat it. "I'm okay, canım. You eat it," I nudged it towards him.
"Why, love? It's your favorite," he dipped it in some tamarind sauce before bringing it closer to me.
The more I stared at it and smelled it, I started to feel bile rising up to my throat. "I know, but I don't want any. I'm not that hungry."
"You didn't even have lunch."
"I know. I think I'm tired. It's just the stress of it all and now I'm finally getting some downtime, so now it's all coming at me all at once."
He nodded understandingly before urging I take a few bites of the rice at least, which wasn't so bad.
Salaar's P.O.V.
My eyebrows were furrowed in concentration while I did Heer's mehendi the following evening in her living room. As per my butterfly's request, the henna artists pretended to do her henna for the pictures. After we all finished taking photos, I began adorning her hands with mehendi.
My hand paused as my head lifted at the sound of a sniffle.
Heer dapped the corner of her eyes with a tissue.
"What happened, love? Why are you crying?" I searched her eyes with concern.
She let out a small giggle, "I'm just so happy that you're doing my mehendi, and because I really really love you, Sally."
I kissed her other hand and continued working, "I really really love you too, mohtarma."
(Madam)
She smiled at my choice of words. "I'm just really happy."
"That's all I want in life."
She pinched my cheek before taking a sip of soda from the can next to her.
"Is this henna artist exclusively for the bride or will he do henna for the guests too?" Daniaal rested his hand on my shoulder.
"Kyun? Mehendi lagana hai, kya?" I asked.
(Why? Do you want to put on henna?)
"Why not? I'll do my hands and go full-on Ranbir Kapoor from Channa Mereya in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil."
"It won't be complete without the dramatic exits that he does mid-weddings in a lot of his movies," Haniya joked after appearing next to him, Hizan acting as her shadow.
"Don't worry about that. I'll schedule my daily life contemplation hour accordingly so it'll give me an excuse to leave and a reason to look all upset while leaving." He then expressed sarcastically, "Oh, the joys of reflecting on days gone past."
"Koi iske shaadi karwa do," Seher Api joked.
(Someone get him married.)
"Mujhe baksh do! Haal-e-dil aisa hai ke Aashiqui 2 ke dialogue yaad aa gaya hai."
(Spare me! The condition of my heart is as such that I remembered a dialogue from Aashiqui 2)
"Which one?" Haniya probed.
"'Pyaar, mohabbat, aashiqui, sirf lafzon ke siwa aur kuch nahin, par jab woh mili, inn lafzon ko maine mil gaye.' Lekin ghalat hai. Pyaar, mohabbat, aashiqui, sach mein, sirf lafzon ke siwa aur kuch nahin."
('Love, passionate love, romance, are nothing but words, but when I met her, these words found meaning.' But it's wrong. Love, passionate love, and romance truly are nothing but words.)
"Aww, Daniaal. What happened?" my butterfly questioned sympathetically.
"Wahi. Pyaar mein mazak ban gaya. Ex ke haathon phir se ulloo ban gaya."
(What else. I became a joke in love. I was made to be a fool at the hands of my ex.)
"You said you weren't going to go back to her!"
"I didn't, she came back!"
"And you took her back?!" Haniya protested.
"Listen, I've learnt my lesson."
"I hope the next girl you meet is the one for you, Daniaal. Really," Heer reached out and gave his arm a squeeze.
"I hope so too. Otherwise, I'm this close to pulling a Feedi from Khuda aur Mohabbat 3 and renouncing everything," he gestured, showing a small space between his thumb and index.
Everyone stifled their laughs while Heer scolded them quietly.
"Wah, kya baat hai, Salaar," Baba approached us. "Bohat sundar ho raha hai. Hai na, Heer?"
(Wow, amazing, Salaar. It's coming along beautifully. Right, Heer?)
"Yes, Baba. I love it!"
"Mujhe bhi thoda sa karwana hai, Salaar."
(I also want to get a little done, Salaar)
"Sach mein, Baba?" my wife's eyes widened.
(Really, Baba?)
"Haan. Tumhari Anne ke naam yahan likhawana hai," he pointed to his palm.
(Yes. I want to get your Anne's name written here)
We all chuckled at my father-in-law's romantic idea.
"Hm, kuch seekho," Seher Api gave her husband the side-eye.
(Learn something.)
"I'm next after Imran Uncle then, Salaar. I'll get your sister's name in block letters on my forearm."
"I'll get yours here," Hizan whispered to Haniya, pointing to his ring finger.
She nudged him in the ribs, making him laugh.
"Aap sab dusre artists ke paas jayein. Yeh sirf mera mehendi artist hai," Heer pouted adorably.
(You all go to different artists. This henna artist is only mine.)
Everyone started moaning in protest before going to ask the other artists how long they would have to wait for their turn.
"Sally, what is that?"
"What is what?" I stifled a chuckle.
"You didn't."
"Oh, but I did, love."
"No!"
"Yes!" I burst into laughter.
"Maindak! Phir se tumne ek maindak ke tasveer mere mehendi mein bana diya!"
(Frog! You drew a frog in my henna again!)
"Uske bina tumhari mehendi toh adhoori rehti, machchar."
(Your henna would've been incomplete without it, mosquito)
"Mujhe tum par bharosa hi nahin karna chahiya tha!"
(I shouldn't have even trusted you!)
"Pata nahin kyun karti ho!"
(I don't know why you do!)
"Pyaar karti hoon main tumse, iss liye, you frog!"
(Because I love you, that's why, you frog!)
"Aur tum hi toh mere dil ho, meri machcharon ki shehzadi," I told her endearingly, making her frustration melt into affection.
(And you are my heart, my princess of mosquitos)
Heer's P.O.V.
It was now the morning of our walima, and I had just left the bathroom after returning from the market, shaking and trembling with a whirlwind of emotions with my hands on my tummy.
My blurry wet vision shifted to the window as I heard Salaar pushing it open.
"Ruhum!" I rushed over to him with a watery smile.
"Good morning, baby," he met me halfway, grinning. "The day's finally here, eh?" he took my hands happily. His eyebrows tugged together at my pooled orbs, "What happened, love?"
I shook my head, my lips twitching in search of the right words, "Balım, I- we- there's- I-"
"Heer!" Anne swung my bedroom door open, "The makeup artist is-" My mother's lips formed a defeated smile as she placed her hands on her hips, "Aaj bhi khirki se, Salaar?"
(Through the window even today, Salaar?)
My husband chuckled, letting go of my hands.
"Pata hai ke ab toh darwaze se aa sakte ho jab bhi chahte ho, hai na? Shohar ho tum uske. Tumhe rok nahin sakti."
(You do know that you can come in through the door whenever you want, right? You are her husband. I can't stop you.)
"Aadat hai, Anne. Aasaani se nahin jaayega. And it's faster this way," he teased.
(It's a habit, Anne. It won't go away so easy...)
Anne shook her head. "Lekin ab tum jao. Aiza bhi keh rahi thi ke tumhara zaroorat hai ussey aur ab Heer tumhe bhi tayaar honi hai. Makeup artist aa gayi hai. Chalo, chalo, chalo," she came towards me while gesturing for my husband to leave.
(But you go now. Aiza was also saying that she needs you and Heer, you have to get ready. The makeup artist is here. C'mon, c'mon, c'mon.)
"But-" I tried to say, but my mother wasn't having it.
"Let me know when you're done getting ready, love. We'll talk then."
I nodded impatiently, having no choice.
"Ab toh tum dono reception hall pe hi miloge. Wahin baat kar lena."
(You two will meet at the reception hall itself. Talk over there)
"Anne!" I whined.
"Bye," I heard Salaar say before disappearing out the window.
My mother sat me down in front of my dressing table, "Shh. Chup chaap baith jao, bebeğim. Tumhara khaana upar bhej deti hoon."
(Sit down quietly, my baby. I'll send food for you up here.)
I pouted as I glanced at the window before responding to my mother with puppy eyes, "Ulti aa rahi hai, Anne. Mujhe bhook nahin hai."
(I feel nauseous, Anne. I'm not hungry.)
"This is normal, çiçeğim. Every girl gets nervous on their walima, but there's nothing to stress about. Everything's under control. Just relax and get ready, beta." She pecked my forehead before letting the makeup artist in.
I didn't know how I was able to sit still while the makeup artist did my makeup and hair after I changed into my sparkly silver lehenga. I was bursting with excitement and nerves. All I wanted to do was tell Salaar.
As soon as I was done getting ready, I was whisked away to the venue where Salaar and I were going to do a photoshoot before the guests arrive.
The lobby of the reception hall was vast and grand with a beautiful long curving staircase. When I arrived, my dashing prince was stood in the middle waiting for me. Our families were already inside making sure the set up was fine.
Finally, I would get to tell him. I didn't know how much longer I could keep it to myself!
"Canım."
My husband turned around at my voice and a smile slowly formed on his lips while his eyes watered as he took in my appearance. He extended his hand towards me. He was wearing a dark, lush 3-piece suit and a crème-colored tie, and simply put, he was drop-dead handsome.
A shy smile graced my lips as I walked over to him and placed my hand on his.
His placed his hands on my waist gently and leaned in for a soft kiss. "You look stunning, love." He gave me another once-over. "Gorgeous."
"Thank you," I murmured, lowering my gaze. "So do you."
"Dreams do come true."
My eyes flew up to his in surprise. Did he know?!
"I'd longed to see you as my bride, Salaar ki dulhan." He leaned in again, whispering against my lips before stealing another kiss, "And it's more than I could have ever wished for."
I placed my hands on his chest as a million butterflies flew around in my stomach. "Speaking of dreams- Sally, there's something I want to tell you- I'm- we're-"
"There's the lovely couple!" the photographer entered the lobby with his crew. "Ready for the photoshoot?"
I sighed quietly, stepping away from Salaar. We both nodded then began taking the photos, posing around the lobby, the staircase, and the beautiful landscape leading into the venue—capturing memories that would last a lifetime.
And before we knew it, it was time to make our grand entries. The pomp and grandeur made our walima a sight to remember and a night unforgettable. The décor and coordination was simply stunning and spot on.
Post duas, speeches, and walima traditions, Sally and I finally got some downtime while we sat on the luxe sofa on the stage and posed for pictures with the guests.
"Lots of heartfelt duas, dear," an aunty smiled after clicking photo with us.
"Thank you," my husband and I echoed.
Sally intertwined his fingers with mine. Normally, I would've teased him about such PDA, but there was something more important. "Sally, mujhe kuch baat karni hai tumse."
(Sally, there's something I want to tell you)
His thumb stroked my hand, "Yes, love?"
My cheeks grew warm as I scooted over closer, "Salaar-"
"Oh, look, they're free. Let's take a picture with them before there's another line," one of the guests told his wife before climbing onto the stage.
"Tell me after, baby."
I nodded before smiling for the pictures. However, the opportunity never came again because it was the beginning of another slew of photos with the guests.
As the cameras flashed, my sight fell upon a guest entering in a sleek black kurta and white trousers. Our eyes met and a silent conversation consisting of apologies, expressions of gratitude, and well-wishes was had. It concluded with exchanging small smiles before Kamran went on to greet my father with a hug.
After a dance performance by Daniaal and his friends, Umair Bhai engaged my husband in a conversation while the guests sat down for food. I linked my arm with Sally's, whispering, "Ruhum."
"One second, love," he told me before finishing up the conversation with his brother-in-law. After Umair Bhai joined Seher Api at the family dinner table, Sally turned towards me, "Yes, baby? You were saying something?"
"Yes, there's-"
Daniaal suddenly ran onto the stage and tugged Sally onto the dance floor where some of their friends had broke into an impromptu dance circle, still buzzing from their electrifying, high energy performance.
After he was able to escape the claws of his friends, Salaar quickly returned to me. "I warned him not to make me dance like that, but I should've known better," he grumbled with a small smile, which told me that he still had fun. "Anyways, what were we talking about?"
I took his hand, "Ruhum-" A figure from the corner of eyes made me pause.
"Mrs. Riaz, next on the program we have the couple's first dance scheduled," the wedding coordinator informed me, "You requested that I remind you to change out of your heels and into flats before the dance. If you follow me to your private changing room, I can show you where the shoes have been kept."
I nodded before turning towards my husband. This was my chance. "Canım, can you come with me?"
"Of course."
We both got up and followed the coordinator to my green room, but, of course, Salaar was stopped by a guest, congratulating him, before he could come inside.
Once the coordinator showed me where my things were, she left and closed the door, and I couldn't help but sit down on the chair and burst into tears.
"It's been so long since I'd seen Furqan," Salaar smiled after he entered and shut the door, "He was really happy to hear that we got marr-" My husband quickly kneeled in front of me and cupped my cheeks with a concerned expression, "Roh kyun rahi ho, meri jaan?"
(Why are you crying, my life?)
"Main kab se tumse baat karne ki koshish kar rahi hoon, lekin tum sun hi nahin rahe ho meri baat," I cried.
(I've been trying to talk to you for so long, but you aren't listening to me)
"Maaf kardo mujhe, sweetheart. I'm so sorry. Tell me, love. I'm listening."
(Forgive me...)
I shook my head, my lips trembling, "Tumhe toh fursat hi nahin hai. Subah se lekar raat tak tumse kuch kehna chah rahi hoon, lekin tum ho ke kuch na kuch leke mashroof huwe jaa rahe ho."
(You don't even have the time. From the morning to the night, I've been trying to tell you something, but you, on the other hand, keep getting busy with something or the other)
"I'm so sorry, baby. I didn't realize. I didn't mean to make you cry, especially on our walima. Please tell me, sweetheart. Mere saare waqt tumhare liye hai. Kya batana hai mujhe?" he stroked my cheek with his thumb, searching my orbs with his sweet worried hazel eyes.
(... All my time is for you. What do you want to tell me?)
"Jhoot. Main kab se tumhe kehne ki koshish kar rahi hoon ke main pregnant hoon, lekin tumhare mere aur hamare baby ke liye koi time hi nahin hai. Pura din doosron ke saath baat mein lage rahe ho aur yahan se jaa ke bhi rahoge!"
(Lies. I've been trying for so long to tell you that I'm pregnant, but you don't even have time for me or our baby. All day, you've been talking with others and will continue doing so after leaving from here!)
He froze, "What?"
"Dekho, mere saamne hote huwe bhi meri baat sun hi nahin rahe ho," I wailed.
(See, despite being in front of me, you aren't even listening to me)
He took my hands, "You're pregnant?!"
I nodded while sniffling.
"Really?" he breathed out of disbelief, his eyes watering slowly.
"Really. We didn't use anything when we-" I rambled quickly, "I didn't think, because of my condition, that anything could happen, but I am beyond happy about our miracle baby. He or she is the biggest blessing we could have ever received- I thought all doors were closed- I know we're only 24 and 23 and you're still on a contract with Ascension and I'm-"
Salaar's lips crashed onto mine, shutting me up. The heart-stopping kiss calmed me down in a split second and had me melting into him.
He pulled back slowly, looking into my eyes with nothing but love. "I love you."
"I love you too," I gave him a watery smile as we wrapped each other in a strong hug.
"I love you. I love you." He kept me in his arms and my own remained drawn around his neck while he looked at me ecstatically, "I can't believe this. I'm going to be a dad!"
I giggled, grinning at his excitement.
His head tilted back as he closed his eyes and thanked Allah SWT. He then placed his hand on my tummy with the largest smile, gazing at my orbs mesmerizingly, "You're going to be the best mum." He pecked my forehead.
We spent some time gushing about the news together, me sharing how I took a pregnancy test this morning because of nausea, tiredness, and just a strong gut-feeling despite what the doctors had told me, him expressing how he was grateful and couldn't believe the miracle that he was having a baby with his best friend, the love of his life. His words had my heart bursting with joy when he told me that Allah SWT loves me and wants me to be happy, so were given such a blessing when I'd become so sad.
Salaar and I had gotten lost in our own world of happiness until the frantic coordinator came back in search of us because the first dance was just about to start.
As we returned to reception hall, I already noticed my husband extra cautious and protective over me.
And when we swayed on the dance floor, it felt like we were on cloud nine as we gazed at each other with love and bursting happiness and hope about our future. The magical, enchanting feeling remained long after we returned to the sofa on the stage as the guests left.
The decorators had begun dismantling the décor when Daniaal suggested we all take one last family photo. Salaar and I sat in the middle on our sofa, my grandparents stood on my left with my parents, Abu and Ami stood on Salaar's right with Daniaal's parents, Seher Api and Umair Bhai posed behind us, and Daniaal kneeled in front my husband and I to fit into the frame.
"Ready?" Haniya asked as she steadied her phone to take the picture.
"Yes!" we all answered.
"Say, 'Chee-'"
I glanced at Sally with an excited look, and he nodded in agreeance. "'Heer's pregnant!'" I interjected jovially.
"Heer's pregnant!" everyone repeated as the camera flashed.
And it was only seconds before everyone broke into cheers while Anne and Ami dropped onto the sofa alongside Salaar and I in shock, "What?!"