ALZIA FF : Mujhmein Tera AKS Pt 24 - pg 31 - Page 21

Part 19 A

Laila sat on her pink queen size bed with a makeup box kept open in front of her. She, for the hundredth time picked up the roller and stood in front of the mirror to put it properly in her hair. She had by now lost count of how many times had she tried doing this.

Laila: Ahhh! She exclaimed frustrated as it was simply impossible for Ms. Laila Hussain to behave a tad-bit girly! But now days, she had started wanting to dress up, take care of herself and look beautiful. Something had changed, and she couldn't have denied this to herself that it was because of someone special.

Once she could finally get the rollers fixed, she excitedly went to her wardrobe and took out the beautiful wavy golden brown dress which she had bought for the party tonight. Laila kept the dress on the bed and super-excitedly, dialed the phone climbing up the little couch in her room.

***

Iqtiaar came out of the shower after freshening up wearing his black track pants and a towel over his shoulder, when he bumped into a slim frame and his hands immediately went around her waist. The movement was so very natural and she fitted so very perfectly against him that for a minute he doubted himself to have believed in the saying that, she was made for him. Iqtiaar Ud-din Mallik never believed in such things, but after having her in his life, he was forced to, if not change then at least bend the rules for himself.

But for Razia it was a completely different story. She loved him from all her heart and was only his in every possible way but the fear of losing him would just not leave her. What if she let her feelings for him come out? Will he not hate her then just like how he hated his mother and the word Love'? She was scared to express herself to such an extent that every time he came close to her she feared that he would know her love for him and will hate her after that. She knew this was silly and she was trying her best to not think like that but... nothing ever helped. Every time, was the same story and an outburst of emotions which were locked in a hidden corner of her bleeding heart worsen the situation.

But this time was different, though she was going through similar emotions, there was something different about Iqtiaar's behavior which held her concentration and didn't let her mind slip back into her dark memories. He pulled her more into him from the waist, his eyes locked with hers as he slightly cupped her cheek in his right hand and bend forward to slowly close the distance between their lips. His lips were soft on hers and this time her mind could only go back until sometime back when he had kissed her downstairs in the living area. This felt much different than that. His arms contained warmth and passion was oozing out from his every movement over her lips. He traced his tongue over her lips and slid it breaking the barriers when she opened her lips slightly for some air. Razia's hands by now were around his neck pulling him more to herself as she gave herself to him with the same passion and want. Her fingers caressed the nape of his neck as she played with his tongue flicking it with hers. She felt in heaven and this was the first time she realized how desperate she herself was for him. She couldn't have fought herself any longer. The need which had been buried in some corner for years now thumped against her chest as she fisted her hands in his wet hair. Her lips felt like dew covered rose petals against his mouth and he moaned into her mouth. Iqtiaar pulled her closer to him and felt her arch her body pressing her chest against his, and felt her hardened nipples through the light material of her wet kurti against his muscular chest.

Her lips let go off his reluctantly as she looked up at him meeting his gaze. She seemed to be glowing; her face a light shade of red mixed pearl and a small almost shy smile touched her face when she caught him staring. The silence between the two of them was becoming really awkward and she really wanted him to break the silence now with his magical words which always made her feel better. And to her luck the telephone on the bed-side table rang. Iqtiaar reluctantly left her as he went into the dressing room to get ready and Razia picked up the phone.

***

Razia: Hello!

It was Laila on the other side. Laila: Razia! Laila this side. What were you doing?

Razia: Excuse me? [remembering the kiss]

Laila: I mean, I hope I didn't disturb you?

Razia: No not at all! Tell me what is it?

Laila: Oh! Actually do you have any golden brown earrings?

Razia: Earrings? I guess I may have a pair of them, why?

Laila: Actually I need it for tonight. I just realized I don't have any matching pair of earrings with my dress. So if I could borrow?

Razia: yeah sure why not? I'll get them with me. Razia realized that Laila for some reason seemed way too excited.

Laila: Okay then bye!

Razia: Bye, see you soon! She said smilingly.

Laila: Ah! Razia? You know that the dress code is formals right?

Razia found the question weird: Yeah I do know that Laila!

Laila: Okay then all the best. See ya!

Razia: Bye!

***

Iqtiaar dressed himself thinking about the course of events of the day. So much had happened today that it all felt like a nightmare. He put his crystal Swarovski cufflinks on his black shirt and took his black-silver tie to wear it, but his mind was pre-occupied as he couldn't help but relive the nightmare he had lived the whole day.

Iqtiaar's tuxedo: http://www.ottavionuccio.com/2013/images/emotion/01-(692)b.jpg

What if it all came out to be true? What if she was actually present in the car? It was their luck, which had played at that point of time, but what if it had not? The questions kept ringing in his mind. He put his jacket on adjusting the collars and then another memory came ...

Flashback!

Nassir: You won't lose her. You love her don't you? He said searching for an answer in his friend's eyes.

Iqtiaar looked back at Nassir with teary eyes and uncertainty trying to get something out from his mouth but nothing came.

Nassir: then you don't have to worry; even god cannot take her away from you. She will always be yours and with you.

End of Flashback!

Iqtiaar: Love? He whispered standing in the dressing room while Razia got dressed in the bedroom.

Just then he heard Razia's soft whimper and worried immediately came out to check on her. There she stood in front of the dresser wearing a peach taffeta strapless floor length dress with her back to the mirror as she looked back into it struggling to tie the bow.

Razia's dress:

But her hands immediately stopped wriggling as she saw her husband's reflection in the mirror while he looked at her and then slowly moved towards her.

He reached her and took her by surprise taking her in his arms wrapping them around her waist slowly moving them up on her back. She was so surprised that till now she hadn't turned her face around to look at him directly and she still had her face turned back looking into the mirror with her arms holding the bow on the back tightly. He relaxed her arms and that's when she turned her face to look at him in the eyes.

His face was inches away from her and his eyes had strange captivity which held her sight making it impossible to look anywhere else. Her hands on their own accord had moved up to his shoulders and she felt a sudden tug making her press herself more into him as he tied the bow knot on her back.

Iqtiaar: Done!

Razia: huh? She said in her trance.

Iqtiaar: I said it's done! He said looking down at her face as she looked at him dazed.

Razia: Ah! Thank you. She whispered but none of them moved an inch after that. They remained like that looking into each other's eyes. Razia with eyes containing new found happiness of gaining a fraction of the love she could only dream of and Iqtiaar with eyes containing new found fear of losing something so special in life.

He took both her hands in his slightly massaging the back side using his thumb and made her sit on the bed sitting beside her. Razia looked at him with question in her eyes and slight smile on her lips.

Iqtiaar: I need to talk to you about today. He said not knowing whether he should tell her about the case and the calls he had been receiving.

Razia: Hmm! She exclaimed expecting him to continue.

Iqtiaar: Razia... Do you trust me? Do you trust me with your safety?

Razia: Of course I do! But why are you...

Iqtiaar: Then... then promise me that you will never go anywhere without informing me. Promise me this.

Razia looked down upset. Razia: I am really sorry Iqtiaar. I never wanted to cause you any trouble. I really didn't know something like this could happen ...

Iqtiaar: Shh! He kept his finger on her lips. You don't have to be sorry. I just want you to make me this promise. That's it.

Razia smiled a toothy smile and said: Promise! I won't go anywhere without letting you know. Okay?

Iqtiaar: Okay! And he bent forward to give her a peck on the cheek.

But Iqtiaar still had his deep eyes fixed on her.

Razia looked away uncomfortable and then excitedly got up saying: Common let's go now! Or else Nassir and his wife are gonna really be very unhappy with you. She pulled his hand making him stand and then dragged him out of the room.

***

Nassir walked up the staircase and entered his bedroom with a wide smile on his face wanting to see his wife desperately. Only he knew how he had spent the whole day without her. And the moment he came inside announcing his presence to his wife, calling her name (Nassir: Fatima!) his bride turned around and ran towards him pulling him in a tight hug.

Fatima: God! I missed you so much. She said digging her face in his chest.

She wore a white gown hugging her curves perfectly with a diamond neckpiece adorning her long beautiful neck.

Fatima's dress:

As she hugged him tightly, Nassir could sense something wrong. It wasn't the normal tight hug his wife gave him every day. It had something different to it.

Nassir: What is it honey; Fatima?

Fatima was really upset because of today's episode with Razia and her. Though Razia had laughed it off saying it was a mere accident. Fatima feared it to be something serious due to Nassir's professional work. And she felt worse thinking that because of her, her friend Razia too was in danger. Fatima never ever hid anything from Nassir. Maybe that's what the strength of their relationship was. But right now, she didn't want to spoil his mood at all. Therefore, she quickly got a naughty smile on her face and then turned around faking a bit of anger.

Fatima: I am angry!

Nassir: And why is that? He said hugging her from the back trailing kisses on her bare shoulder. Fatima shrugged a bit feeling tickled and Nassir did it more.

Fatima: Because you are going to make both of us late for the party! And I don't like to be late. So go and get ready! She said turning around pushing him into the dresser with his tuxedo.

Nassir came out in a while by the time Fatima finished with her makeup wearing a black tuxedo.

Nassir's tuxedo:

Nassir came forward without Fatima noticing and picked her up in his arms turning around in circles making her gasp in shock to see her husband so very happy!

Nassir fell down on the bed with Fatima over him and wriggling uselessly locked in his arms.

Fatima: Nassir let me go! Please honey, look we are getting really late. As much as she loved this, she tried to explain it to him wanting her husband to for once behave a little responsible and not be late. But Nassir without a word just caught her words in between as he took her lips in his kissing her passionately. Fatima broke the kiss first and exclaimed: Alright now you are done so get up and let's get going. Hurry up!

Nassir: On one condition!

Fatima: Honey, we can't be late for this party. We are the hosts for god's sake! She said frowning down at him.

Nassir: Just one question! Promise ...

Fatima: What??

Nassir: What is it which is troubling you so much? He said looking straight into her eyes.

***

Iqtiaar and Razia reached the venue where Laila along with JY stood on the entrance. JY stood wearing his usual happy go lucky expression on his face clad in a blue color suit.

JY's tuxedo:

Razia's corner of lips stretched forming a smile as she saw Laila standing nervous and shy which she usually wasn't, not even daring to look at the man standing on her right. She wore a golden brown dress and her hair loose curled with golden high heels. That was so not like how Laila was!

Laila's dress:

Razia held Iqtiaar's arm as they walked up to their friends. JY hugged Iqtiaar and welcomed the couple.

Iqtiaar: How come both of you are welcoming everyone?

JY: Oh! Well, when the hosts themselves are late then the organizers will have to welcome everyone, isn't it!

Iqtiaar: Nassir.. again he's late?

JY: You bet! They both laughed knowing very well what could make Nassir late as usual. But thank god, Laila was here with me. Because even Zaroon has already left for Manchester, I was worried how I would arrange everything on my own.

Razia: Well you would always have Laila to help you. She said winking at Laila and Laila returned it by glaring back at Razia. But the exchange of expressions between the women went unnoticed by the men.

JY: yes of course! He said smiling.

***

Next: Laila opens up to Razia!!!

Part 2 coming up... Post over limit hogaya tha...

Love

Shopau

Part 19 B

Laila and Razia entered one of the exquisite Ladies rooms of the Radisson and Laila immediately bolted the door from inside.

Razia: Arre! Laila what are doing? What if someone else needs to come in?

Laila: Razia, this room is specially booked only for us to use, so don't worry.

Razia: Really? She said passing the pair of earrings to Laila.

Razia looked around the room while Laila changed her earrings and touched up her makeup looking into the large mirror in front of her. Razia walked a bit to the other side of the mirror and dropped on the low lying bed in the corner of the dressing room.

Laila: Be careful with your dress Razia! She exclaimed seeing Razia so casually handling her dress. Razia smiled.

Razia: What is it today with you Laila?

Laila looked back confused. Laila: what? Why are you asking this?

Razia: Nah, it's just that you seem... rather look, a bit different.

Laila immediately became conscious and turned around looking in the mirror again and said: No Razia, its nothing like that, you are just misunderstanding ... actually ... she tried explaining while stammering badly as she lied. And then just stopped talking when she felt Razia's hand on her shoulder and saw her reflection in the mirror.

Razia: You love him, don't you? Laila turned around to look at Razia surprised. She had a question in her eyes like "how do you know?"

Razia: It's pretty obvious. She said smiling but Laila looked down a bit sad.

Razia: Hey! Why are you being upset about this? Laila you don't need to do all this for him. Just go and tell JY that you love him. I know he would never be able to say a no to you. She said looking into her eyes trying to encourage her.

Laila: Razia, it's not so easy, you don't know anything.

Razia suddenly felt a bit worried seeing Laila so very uncomfortable about this all. Razia: Laila, come sit. She made Laila sit and then asked her: you consider me as your friend don't you?

Laila nodded.Razia: then tell me why you are so scared about all this?

Laila: Razia! When did you realize that I love him? Razia: Ah! May be that day at the airport!

Laila: Hmm, but you don't know that I have been in love with him for the past six years, do you? Razia looked at her with wide eyes shocked! Laila continued: yes six years! Long time isn't it?

Okay a quick recap on their current ages:

Iqtiaar: 28 --- Razia: 24

Nassir: 28 ---Fatima: 26

JY: 28 --- Laila: 24 (same as Razia)

Zaroon: 26 --- Chanda: 24

Shazia: 32 - Atign: 32;

Laila: Razia, I first met JY, Donny and Nassir in college six years back when I was 18 and I came to college. They were all my seniors. Donny was my student mentor.. she smiled remembering old times... and JY, one of his closest friends. I wasn't really good in academics and Donny used to help me with my assignments after class. JY was in the Architecture department and used to work in his studios for long hours and therefore most of the times Donny used to help me do work sitting in the architecture studio as we could easily find quiet place to study there.

Razia smiled listening to the friends' story which Laila was telling her. She was getting really excited and inquisitive to know more.

Laila: I wasn't just bad in studies but also really very shy and it was because of Donny that I could make friends. After we used to finish work, we three generally were joined by Nassir and used to hang out together. That's how slowly I made friends with them all. Laila told Razia all this with a sweet smile on her face, but suddenly her expression turned a sad one as she looked down.

Razia: Laila?

Laila: Razia, they all are my best buddies, but they always treated me like... like one them, one of the guys. And in all this I myself forgot that I am a girl. I forgot that I should behave like one and that... that I could fall for someone special or maybe I already had. I was in love with JY Razia. But I could never get myself to tell him, because I have always just been a friend to him... a buddy. She said with tears in her eyes.

Razia couldn't stop herself and just immediately hugged Laila tight. If it was anyone who knew how terrible it felt when you just couldn't get yourself to confess your love? It was her. And Razia felt worse seeing Laila like this. She didn't know if she would ever be able to tell Iqtiaar how much she loved him, but she would make sure Laila gets her Love in her life! She promised herself.

***

The Hall was decorated beautifully with dim romantic lights all around. All the who's who of London was present in the party with everything being class apart.

The couple like a newly wedded man and wife walked the aisle with Fatima wearing a white bridal gown and Nassir in his black tuxedo. JY raised a toast for the happy married life of the couple and many more such years of togetherness to come.

As everyone made their way to congratulate the couple, Iqtiaar looked around for Razia only to see her missing. He asked JY where Razia and Laila were. Just then they both saw Razia and Laila entering the hall and both of them looking kind of dull and unhappy. As Razia reached Iqtiaar, he took Razia's hand in his and whispered to her rubbing her hand softly: is everything alright? Razia nodded getting her smile back. Laila too cheered up seeing Nassir and Fatima to have already arrived and JY hurried pulled Laila's hand to take her with him to congratulate both of them.

Iqtiaar: Come; let me introduce you to Nassir and his wife. He slipped his hand on her waist and led her towards the stage. The moment both the couples came face to face, Iqtiaar and Nassir hugged each other extremely happy while their better halves looked at each other with utter shock. Their jaws dropping and eyebrows shot up!!

Razia: WHAT THE!!!

Fatima: HECK!

Razia: Fatima?

Fatima: Raziaaa?

Razia: Oh..MY.. GOD!

Fatima: Ya ALLAH!

The men broke the hug listening and seeing the shocked expressions on their wives' faces and looked at the two ladies bewildered as the ladies suddenly looked at their husbands for a second and then burst out laughing, hugging each other.

Iqtiaar: Excuse me ladies? If you don't mind may I please care to know what is so seemingly funny and shocking for you both? I guess JY is not around?

Razia: Ah! Iqtiaar ...

Fatima: Donny actually ... they both spoke at the same time.

Nassir: I'll tell you! Well my dear wife Fatima is the "friend" Razia went on a shopping adventure with! Isn't it Mrs. Mallik? He said putting his hand forward in front of Razia.

Razia put her hand in his as he lightly kissed it greeting her. Razia: I am sorry but.. how do you know? She asked nervously exchanging a look from Iqtiaar to Nassir.

Fatima: Yes! How do YOU know?

Nassir: I knew the moment you told me what happened with you and your friend today, when we were home.

Nassir: You have no idea what you made us go through Razia; we were running... nah DRIVING around like maniacs in the whole of London to look for you today.

Razia looked shocked at Iqtiaar as he looked down trying to wash away the horrible memory.Razia: I am sorry, she whispered to Iqtiaar. Iqtiaar turned to her slightly caressing her cheek with his thumb and shook his head.

Fatima: But why didn't you tell me about Razia and Donny then?

Nassir: If I would have, then how would I have got to see the expression on both your faces at the moment?

Fatima smiled widely and side hugged her husband kissing his cheek.

Iqtiaar: Alright then, it's time to celebrate and the cake is well ... JY?

JY stood at the other end of the hall: Here we go!

Laila and JY got the cake for the couple but before they would cut the cake Nassir took Fatima's hands in his and they both took their Marriage vows once again.

Nassir: Fatima, you are my best friend. I love you with all my heart and stand here before all of our friends and family, sharing the happiest day of my life. I want nothing more than to share my future with you - my triumphs and my challenges, my joys and my sorrows. Together, I know we can accomplish the life we both dream of living. And I promise to love you until death do us apart and beyond that.

Fatima: Before my life was joined with yours, I was incomplete. Before I loved you, everything was dark. Now that our lives are joined, I am full in love, in laughter and in light. You are everything to me and I give all I have to you and wish that you may have all you want and need. I love you Nassir.

JY: And I now declare you both Man and Wife once again. You may kiss the bride.

Nassir kissed Fatima and the couple then cut the cake together celebrating their love and committed companionship.

***

The lights went out the very next moment and Laila stood under the spotlight making the announcement.

Laila: Ladies and gentlemen please give a big round of applause to welcome the once again newly wedded couple on the dance stage please.

Nassir and Fatima danced together under the spotlight with everyone wishing for their togetherness with all their heart. Razia stood silently looking at them both dancing together lost in her thoughts thinking about the vows they both had just taken. They had the perfect life she had only dreamt about till date; the fairy tale love story which she had completely lost hope of living any day. But then she felt her husband's hand warmly placed on her waist as he pulled her more to himself, with his chin on her shoulder, he lightly kissed it when she looked back at him and he smiled at her. They both came out of the trance when they heard everyone clapping for Nassir and Fatima.

Laila announced for the dance floor to be opened for everyone and welcomed everyone to please join the couple on the dance floor. Razia had her eyes still fixed on Iqtiaar when she suddenly felt a pull in her hand as Iqtiaar took her to the dance floor. She was absolutely not expecting any such thing at the moment. But Iqtiaar couldn't have resisted his wife any longer.

Plz play the song now: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX7h0-7wC_0&ob=av3e

Music: The violins were being played with women sitting around a champagne fountain. Iqtiaar held her by the waist and took her one hand in his while her other went over to his shoulder. Even though Iqtiaar had danced with Razia once before on their reception also giving her a surprise by singing for her himself, something was different about him today. She could feel it!

Sholon si sholon si
tere ankhon ki yeh roshni

kiske liye hai kiske liye hai

chandni chandni, tere chere ki yeh chandni

kiske liye hai kiske liye hai

He danced with her making her follow his steps blindly as she had no clue about anything that was happening around. She just looked into his eyes living her dream which she wasn't even realizing was actually true.

tera muskurana nazar yun jhukana

tera muskurana nazar yun jhukana

mere liye hai bas mere liye hai

He turned her round in his arms as he held her down and then kissed her neck all the way up till her chin making herself leave herself completely in his mercy.

sholon si sholon si

tere ankhon ki yeh roshni

kiske liye hai kiske liye hai

chandni chandni tere chere ki yeh chandini

kiske liye hai kiske liye hai

They both danced oblivious of all the other pair of eyes who looked at them both amazed at the raw chemistry and passion they shared. It was getting hawt in there and nobody dared to move an inch away from where they were standing. The dance floor was clear for just the two of them.

samjho mera joh ishara hai

joh bhi hai mera woh tumhara hai

samjho mera joh ishara hai

joh bhi hai mera woh tumhara hai

lehar mein koi hoon khoyi

manzil toh hai tu kinara hai

She moved a bit away trying to express her feeling to him in a little gesture and moved back towards him dancing on his tune.

yeh meri adayaein yeh meri wafaein

yeh meri adayaein yeh meri wafaein

tujhko pata hai sabh tere liye hai

sholon si sholon si

meri ankhon ki yeh roshni

tere liye hai tere liye hai

chandni chandni mere chere ki yeh chandni

tere liye hai tere liye hai

Music: JY along with Laila and Nassir with Fatima had smiles on their face as they looked at them both with complete shock but a pleasant SHOCK!

haske dikha do deewane ko

joh ho raha hai ho jane do

haske dikha do deewane ko

joh ho raha hai ho jane do

dil ke uljhan zubaan pe

ati hai toh aajane do

yeh hoton ki narmi yeh sanson ki garmi

yeh hoton ki narmi yeh sanson ki garmi

mere liye hai bas mere liye hai

The intensity in their movements was increasing with each step. Iqtiaar was slowly losing all sorts of self control as he wanted nothing but Razia in his arms. She was his and will always remain his! He wanted to see, hear and feel only her and nothing else.

sholon si sholon si

teri ankhon ki yeh roshni

kiske liye hai kiske liye hai

chandni chandni tere chere ki yeh chandni

kiske liye hai kiske liye hai

tera muskurana nazar yun jhukana

tera muskurana nazar yun jhukana

mere liye hai bas mere liye hai

The song ended with both of them in each other's arms as everything came to a halt. It seemed that time had stopped at that very moment with them both lost in each other's eyes, breathing heavily and no one around.

***

Next: ALCOHOL!!!

Looong update means Looonnnggg Comments.

Love

Shopau

Originally posted by: princess200

Babe...mistake hua ek...u wrote Laila opens up to khushi instead of Razia😆

Omg the men and their tuxedos mera to qatal hogaya

And u gave the best dress to Laila😡 why not razia😆

Awaiting part 2

~Mujhmein Tera AKS~

Part 20

The song ended with both of them in each other's arms as everything came to a halt. It seemed that time had stopped at that very moment with them both lost in each other's eyes, breathing heavily and no one around.

***

Iqtiaar bent his head a bit down anticipating kissing his wife when the sudden round of applause and whistling made them come out of their little world. Razia felt the heat as a deep blush crept on her cheeks. Her plum lips were slightly open and her heart thud frantically against her chest. Iqtiaar smiled warmly and then looked around towards his friends whose eyes were glinting with happiness and lips forming wide smiles. Nassir came up to them clapping his hands loudly and announced.

Nassir: A big round of applause once again for the two of them ladies and gentlemen!

Fatima, Laila and JY too came up on the dance floor and congratulated the two of them. Fatima warmly hugged Razia and whispered in her ear: Didn't I tell you, it was impossible for him to not fall for you?

Razia smiled meekly remembering her talking to Fatima in the mall in the afternoon and looked sideways towards her husband who at the moment was shaking hands with some person unknown to her. She felt a soft hand on her shoulder and saw Laila next to her with her cute toothy smile. She hugged Razia tight and whispered: That was unbelievable Razia, seems like you did follow the plan last night? She said winking at Razia.

Razia gave Laila a warning look like "please don't start again"

Laila giggled and then pulled Razia saying: okay forget it, Come with me, let's go get a drink! And she took Razia with her towards the bar. Razia not realizing where they both were heading just turned around to look at Iqtiaar once again who was busy chatting with Fatima and Nassir.

***

Nassir and Fatima went and stood with Iqtiaar.

Nassir: So I already see a change in you my friend! Three days isn't it? He said teasingly.

Iqtiaar: TEN.. Actually. He said annoyed.

Nassir: That surely makes a Big difference Mr. Mallik!

Fatima intervened: Oh stop it you two. (She turned to Iqtiaar) First of all Donny, we are really very sorry that we couldn't make it to your wedding.

Iqtiaar smiled and shook his head: It's alright Fatima; you don't have to apologize for it. I know Nassir was already booked and was really busy with his cases last week.

Nassir: Oh hello? Why the hell are you apologizing? It should be him, who should apologize; got married in a week's time and didn't even give us any time to prepare or come to India...

Iqtiaar: You had to work on the case Nassir!

Nassir: Yeah right!! See that's what I am talking about. I don't even get a leave to attend my best friend's wedding! WORK ALWAYS IS A PRIORITY!! (He said imitating Iqtiaar) YES BOSS!

Fatima smiled and shook her head knowing it was completely useless to say anything between Iqtiaar and Nassir. Even though they both came from two completely different schools of thought, somewhere they both took and inculcated each other's good into themselves and simply ignored the negatives. They were both in true sense partners; Best Buddies!

Fatima thought if it was true only for Iqtiaar's friendship with Nassir or was it same for all his friendships; Especially Iqtiaar's friendship with... Rukn-ud-din? She thought looking at Razia's trailing figure as she went somewhere with Laila.

***

Laila took Razia to the bar while Razia was still lost replaying the moments in her head which she spent minutes ago with Iqtiaar. But as she moved her head up looking and realizing where she was standing at the moment, her body froze at its place and her lips started shivering with her eyes fixed on the alcoholic bottles kept in front of her. There were people around her, sitting and drinking on the bar counter and to Razia it seemed as if the bar tender was asking her something.

Bar tender: What ... wouLD you... like to HaVE.. MaAm???

His voice sounded like a nineteenth century tape recorder to her which desperately needed a repair. Different sounds and shouting shrieking voices were echoing in her head and images of those horror filled nights replayed over the screen of that glass alcohol bottle kept in front of her!

Laila: RAZIA!!!! Laila's voice brought Razia back into the present but she still looked lost somewhere.

Razia: huh? She looked at Laila.

Laila: He's asking you what you would like to have. Wine maybe? She asked warmly.

Razia looked away and murmured trying to control herself. Razia: I... I don't drink.

***

Nassir: Anyways, the wedding is done now, but what are your plans for the honeymoon? Have you planned something yet?

Iqtiaar: Uh hmm, not yet! I already have a lot of work and commitments to fulfill on my plate. I don't have time for a vacation right now.

Nassir and Fatima exchanged a look.

Fatima: Donny, we aren't asking you to take a break and go on a vacation, we are talking about your HONEYMOON! You should definitely take Razia somewhere and spend some time with just her.

Iqtiaar: I know, but...

Fatima: But what? She would love to be with you Iqtiaar.. trust me on this.

Nassir: Fine, I know what's troubling you; it's about her safety right? Fatima looked at Nassir while Iqtiaar slightly looked down, a bit tensed.

Nassir: Donny, I guess you should just tell her about it all. At least she would be cautious and aware about her surroundings!

Fatima: What do you mean by "tell her"? Doesn't she know about him yet? She asked looking at Iqtiaar.

Iqtiaar: No. But I think you are right, its time I should tell her everything. I can't take risk with her safety at any cost.

***

Razia: I .. I don't drink. She said looking away.

Laila: Oh, no problem, any mocktails?

Razia closed her eyes trying to control herself from shivering, as she held both her hands together pressing them into her belly. She took in a deep breath in and then out, cooling and calming herself down.

Laila: Razia, are you okay? Laila asked a bit concerned seeing Razia behave a bit awkward. She wasn't even responding.

Razia slowly opened her eyes counting back from ten to one. As she opened her hazel eyes, they met with another dark and lustful pair of eyes. A man sat in front of her with a cigarette in one hand and a glass of whiskey in another. The man scanned her face with his boring dark eyes while he took a sip of his drink and then bit and licked his lower lip looking at her. Razia with difficulty swallowed the lump in her throat and turned to Laila.

Razia: I don't want anything! Ah... (She continued looking from the corner of her eye at the man still staring at her) I'll just come in a minute. And Razia turned to her toes running away.

Laila: Ya... But Razia wait! She shouted for her but it was too late, Razia had run away into the crowd and Laila could no longer see where she had gone.

***

Iqtiaar: The only thing is that I don't want to take any sort of a risk with her security. What happened today; I would never in my life be able to forget that.

Nassir looked down and kept a supporting hand on Iqtiaar's shoulder.

Iqtiaar: I.. I wanted to see her happy, smiling ... But what have I done! He said frustrated. No... I won't be able to see her like that... living in fear... all the time...

Nassir: But Donny, someday or the other, you will have to tell her. It's not just about this case! You know how our profession is. She needs to understand that ... and live according to that. He tried explaining and making Iqtiaar understand the importance of Razia knowing everything and all the dangers Iqtiaar dealt with in his everyday life.

Iqtiaar: You don't understand what I am trying to say Nassir! She isn't ready for all this. I can see it. I can feel it since the very day I said yes for this marriage...She won't ...she won't be able to take it!

Fatima immediately realized what Iqtiaar was trying to say and maybe she even knew the reason which unfortunately Iqtiaar was still unaware of.

Nassir: Why do you say so? What is wrong?

Iqtiaar: I DON'T KNOW! I really have no clue. Nassir... ever since I met her for the first time... she seemed to be very quiet. I thought maybe, it's just her shyness...

Nassir: Shyness? Donny... But she doesn't seem to be shy! I mean... she met all of us for the first time today and she was pretty comfortable.

Iqtiaar: EXACTLY!! I realized it just two three days back. It's something else... I don't know what, but there's definitely something. It's as if she's always scared about something... like a fear or maybe insecurity.

Nassir listened carefully while Fatima remained quiet.

Iqtiaar: She still isn't very comfortable around me and with all these surroundings. I don't want to scare her more with this. But then when I recall about today's incident, maybe I should tell her...

Fatima: NO! She immediately reacted. Nassir and Iqtiaar looked at her surprised. I mean... Don't rush things up with her Donny! I think she needs time.

Nassir: But honey, it's about Razia's safety. You should understand...

Fatima: I do understand and that's why I am trying to tell you guys... In fact I know more than you both what it means to know or not know about all of this. I am no different than Razia to experience all this right?

Iqtiaar nodded understanding.

Fatima: Donny, I know you are worried but don't you worry, I'll try and spend as much time as possible with Razia... She'll be comfortable with all of this in no time, really!

Iqtiaar sighed and agreed. Just then Laila came up to all them along with JY.

JY: Donny, where's Razia?

Iqtiaar frowned. Iqtiaar: She was with Laila, wasn't she?

Laila: Oh yes, but she left long back... I was looking for her but she wasn't around, I thought maybe she's with you all. Hasn't she come here?

Iqtiaar and Nassir looked at each other as fear and shock gripped them both.

***

Iqtiaar, JY and Nassir ran around in the crowded party hall primarily towards the dance floor as it was difficult to spot anyone in there. Fatima went to check the ladies room while Laila went out to check if Razia had gone out of the hotel. But they couldn't find a clue as to where Razia could be. Iqtiaar felt anxiety take over him as he ran around hyper and worried. What if he again tried to hurt her? He couldn't let any damn thing happen to his wife. She was everything to him, everything!

The rest of them joined him, giving the bad news. None of them could find Razia anywhere around. And that's when Iqtiaar lost his cool and blasted over Laila.

Iqtiaar: How the hell could you let something like this happen, Laila? Oh shoot, he really was mad. He only spoke in this tone when he was really angry. Were you sleeping or what when Razia went away? You took her with you; then it was your responsibility to make sure she's safe.

JY: Donny why are you shouting at Laila? How is it her fault? How could she have thought that Razia could have been unsafe in our private party? He said amused by Iqtiaar's behavior towards Laila.

Iqtiaar: She should know! And she does know that nowhere is safe for Razia because someone within Mallik Law Firm works for him; someone who is tracking our each movement. He shouted at JY, his eyes red coz of rage.

Nassir looked at Iqtiaar shocked. How could he say something like that? Nassir: What the hell do you mean Donny? Nassir was hurt. You know it's just us friends from Mallik Law Firm who are present in this party. No other employee is invited. Then are you trying to say that...

Iqtiaar: Exactly, that's what I am trying to say. He said looking straight into Nassir's eyes. Nassir was about to retaliate when Fatima caught hold him arm and stopped him.

Fatima: This is not the time. Please let's once again go and check for her. She must be somewhere around. Laila, please tell us what all had happened before Razia suddenly left?

Laila narrated the incident at the bar to her friends minus the man staring at Razia as she herself hadn't noticed that. Iqtiaar along with the rest of them moved towards the bar to find something which could tell them what was bothering Razia.

JY: Donny, me and Nassir are going around the other side once again, Fatima and Laila, why don't you both check the ladies room once again. Laila and Fatima went to the ladies room while JY forcefully dragged Nassir away from Iqtiaar. Nassir still was in a foul mood.

Iqtiaar moved towards the direction where Razia had gone (Laila had told him). He looked for her desperately when he saw the peach color bow of Razia's dress lying next to his feet. It was the same bow he had tied before leaving their home for the party. Iqtiaar desperately looked around and found a fire exit door a few feet away. The music was too loud and distracting. He moved swiftly towards the heavy door and pushed it open to see a blonde man forcibly leaning over Razia. His blood boiled in his veins as he shouted and gripped the man from his shoulder, punching him right across his face. Razia dropped down to her feet, tears flowing uncontrollably down her now pale cheeks. Iqtiaar lost all sensibility and punched the man who was on the verge to collapse, again and again. The friends reached the door and JY and Nassir caught hold of Iqtiaar to stop him. Fatima and Laila reached for Razia, but she sat there like a statue. The moment Fatima touched her shoulder, she shouted for help as if tortured and rushed into Iqtiaar's arms. Nassir called the guards and gave the man to the cops. Razia dug her nails into Iqtiaar's flesh hiccupping in between her sobs.

Iqtiaar: Shh! It's okay Jaan, I am here. He held her close kissing her head slightly. Iqtiaar excused himself without saying anything and Laila followed them out. Nassir too decided to call off the party. Laila went with Iqtiaar and Razia to make sure Razia was fine while JY, Nassir and Fatima went back to their homes respectively.

***

Iqtiaar stood at his penthouse door along with Laila who was leaving to go back home.

Laila: I hope Razia's fine now. If you need anything just call JY... his house isn't far.

Iqtiaar: I know that Laila.

Laila: Good! She plainly stated and turned around to leave when Iqtiaar stopped her.

Iqtiaar: Laila?

Laila: Hmm?

Iqtiaar: I am really... I shouldn't have... he tried to apologize, but that was one thing which he just couldn't do.

Laila: Don't be Donny. I know you were worried about Razia. It's absolutely alright. Don't think about it anymore.

Iqtiaar: Thanks a ton.

Laila: But Donny.. I guess you should call Nassir once. Iqtiaar looked up sad at Laila. Nassir cares for you more than anything Iqtiaar... and with whatever has happened with Fatima before... he's the only one who really understands what you go through when Razia is at stake. He would never let Razia be in danger because of him.

Iqtiaar: I know... I'll give him a call right away. Laila smiled: Bye and take care of her.

***

Razia opened her eyes to see herself lying on her king size bed in the dark room which had only the light coming from the three side glass walls looking out at London's skyline. The incident with the drunk blonde leaning over her replayed in her mind and she jerked up in a sitting position switching on the night lamb on her bedside table. She was sweating badly and could still smell alcohol around her. Razia realized that she was still in her dress with her back completely bare to the chill she felt, as the sick psycho had torn the bow away. She slowly got off the bed and went into the bathroom picking up her white night dress. She stood under the shower for what felt light eternity crying out her heart full of insecurities and fear. Razia felt the vulnerable emotions slowly flowing down with water helping her wear back the mask of the girl who was immune to any negative emotion troubling her.

***

Iqtiaar returned back in his room to see Razia missing from the bed.

Iqtiaar: Razia! He shouted for her immediately as an insecure fear gripped him.

Razia: I am in here... she managed to choke out from inside the bathroom. Her response made Iqtiaar sigh a relief and he walked towards the closed bathroom door.

Iqtiaar: you alright?

Razia: Yeah I am fine; just taking a bath before I go to bed. She said trying to control a sob.

Iqtiaar: sure you don't need anything?

Razia: uh huh! Don't... don't worry!

Iqtiaar relaxed and then continued through the door: I am downstairs in the lower level... give me a shout if you need me!

He moved out of the bedroom to go to the lower level of the three floor massive penthouse.

***

Fatima came out of the dressing room changed into her night gown to see her husband sitting on his arm chair with a heavy law case studies book opened in his lap. But his eyes looked into the fire which burnt in the fire space in their room next to where he was sitting.

Fatima slowly walked up to him and sat on the chair kept opposite to where Nassir was sitting. This was the place where the couple sat together every night after dinner discussing the little on goings of their day, solved each other's problems and shared the happiness celebrating their success. It was their little ritual in their cozy corner space; and today definitely had a lot on the plate to be discussed.

Fatima: She means the same to him as I mean to you.

Nassir moved his gaze up to his wife's face from the fire without moving his head at all.

Nassir: Do you think I don't understand that? I do! But how can he think that... That... I am his friend and...

Fatima: And she is his wife!

Nassir looked at his wife bewildered and took his specks off his nose looking straight in Fatima's eyes.

Nassir: That does not mean that I will let him talk to me and about me in any such manner as he did today.

Fatima: Then who will? She simply stated with a smile on her lips trying to make her husband understand how important he was to his friend. Nassir's face expressions immediately softened as he tried to understand his wife's point of view.

Fatima: You are the only reason; Donny is still residing here in England Nassir. You are a brother to him... and we are his family.

Nassir sighed and looked down. Fatima: As for Iqtiaar's concern for Razia...imagine yourself to be in his place. Would you believe anyone with my safety even in your own party?

Fatima threw the question at her husband making him understand that it was more important for the two of them to be Iqtiaar's support at the moment and not let any doubt with respect to his friendship hover into their minds.

***

Next: Razia's PAST!!! The Revelation

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