Whether we girls are insomniac or lunatic. I believe we all are Maniacs. It's 2.30 am and instead of sleeping peacefully we all are laughing at the hairdos of people on this trip. A girl sleepover that ended up becoming our endless laughing session.
"I believe we all should sleep now" Hoorain suggests while swathing in a blanket, if we leave her alone anywhere she'll prefer sleeping. "Who sleeps at night?" Maha exclaims pulling away Hoorain's blanket.
"Normal people sleep at night Maha" I swat her arm and wrap myself in a blanket as well. "Ok guys I have a better idea" Maha declares while standing on the squishy mattress and I already sense something questionable coming up. "You know how much I love you Maha" Ayra jumps on the bed with a wider smile upon brainstorming about those wicked ideas. Somebody please tell these girls that it's midnight! We are supposed to be sleeping right now.
"The idea should be that let's sleep and watch dreams" Hoorain says in her sleepy voice and cuddles deeply in her pillow before Maha throws a pillow in her direction "shut up Hoor let me speak"
"Let's go on a long drive" Maha declares with a wide grin and hands flying in air. I feel my heart skip a beat "are you all crazy! It's 2.30 a.m."
Ayra bumps her fist with Maha "perfect timing we all will enjoy the night"
Hoorain bumps out of her blanket and rubs her eyes "just inform me when we are leaving" of course I'm the only sane person in this group but guess what, I'll end up with them in every problem because as much as I neglect it, I enjoy every moment with them.
"C'mon Inaya it's just just a long drive not a horror movie" Ayra rolls her eyes dramatically "it will be a horror movie if Inaya drives" Hoorain giggles and Maha bursts into laughter, "yeah she'll be taking one turn and we all will be roaming as ghosts"
"Alright but from where are we getting the car?" I ask before all of their heads turn towards me with sly grin. I understand the motive of their motion and immediately disagree "you guys are definitely insane"
They are suggesting that I dial my driver's number and demand him to send a car at this location and it's no big deal but the only thing is what if my dad comes to know?
"My dad will kill me for sneaking out" I utter pacing back and forth in the room "remember we went on a long drive in sec year but your father didn't know about anything" Ayra places her hands on my shoulders to explain it to me, I agree that my dad won't know but I'm still afraid.
I'm the daughter of Hassan Shehryar, he's related to the underworld that's the main reason I've grown up to be a cautious and cowardly girl. Raised in the midst of gunshots and acting like adults from the age of 6 has made me who I am today. But coming across these girls have shaped me into an entirely different personality, with the traces of my old version I'm not afraid to push my boundaries and for once act like a child I never got the chance to be.
"Alright I'm calling the driver" with shaky hands, I pull out my phone and dial the number. After a brief conversation I hung up "the car will be here in 10 minutes"
Maha jumps on the bed and dances a little "finally a road trip"
Hoor wraps herself in a shawl completely and appears to be humpty Dumpty "you guys should pay me for spoiling my sleep"
We all join her in a warm group hug "ladies let's go"
Ten minutes later, we piled into the luxurious car I had arranged. The driver, used to my odd requests, simply nods and hands the key over to me. Ayra is driving the car as she's the only one who will keep us safe and sound.
"Guys look there are Azan's cows sleeping" Hoorain points at them with adoration while I proceed with my anxious thoughts "what if we guys bump in them" Maha laughs louder and says "then we'll have fresh milk for breakfast"
Ayra laughs and shakes her head "acha Chalo betho nahi to Inaya behosh hojayegi"
(Now sit in the car or else Inaya will faint)
We are finally on the road, cruising through the dark night with the windows down, the cool breeze whipping through our hair. I am behind the wheel, which seemed to be the safest option considering Inayaâs tendency to freak out at the slightest bump. Maha takes the charge for songs and her playlist is filled with classic item songs like munni bandnam huyi, Sheila ki jawani, fevicol se and Anarkali disco Chali e.t.c.
"Mumbai ki na Delhi walo ki"Â we all sing at the top of our lungs, laughing as we try to outdo each other with our dance moves in the confined space of the car. Maha, sitting in the back seat with Hoorain waves her hands in the air, doing her best impression of the dancer. "Pinky hai peso waalo ki" she yells, shaking her head wildly.
As the music shifts to another one all of us yell together "munni bandnam huyi darling Tere Liye" she holds up Hoorain's chin up for teasing her and Hoor dances along with her singing the next lyric "le zhandu balm huyi darling Tere Liye"
Inaya who was initially resistant to this plan seems to enjoy herself the most in this moment as she has her veil wrapped over her head and dancing along the song.
Due to the wheel in my hand I can only sing my heart out and shake my shoulders a little bit. I can't help but look at these girls with all the love I behold. Sometimes you meet strangers who bloom the withered blossoms in your heart and become the family you never had, they are my family.
"Ayra Tum to dance mat karo aesa na ho ki Anarkali disco Kai bajaye Marne ko Chali" Inaya shouts earning a laugh from all of us.
(Ayra you don't dance or Anarkali will be dying instead of going to disco)
The car jerks a little as I laugh, but I quickly correct it "ok guys seems like the car wanted to dance as well" I tighten my grip on the wheel. "Focus Ayra, you can't kill us before we finish our night of fun" Hoorain mock scolds me.
We continued our session, the music blasting louder than ever. "Chamak challo" is playing and we're all singing it as loudly as we can.
I canât resist pulling over to the side of the deserted road. "Come on, letâs take this party outside!" I say, turning off the engine but leaving the music on full blast. We all tumble out of the car, still singing and dancing. The cool night air feels refreshing against our flushed faces. Weâre dancing in the middle of the road, the moonlight casting long shadows as we move.
Out of nowhere, we hear the roar of motorcycles approaching. Four guys on bikes pull up, their engines revving loudly. My heart sinks when I see the looks on their facesâthis isnât good.
"Ayra I feel like I'm actually fainting now" Inaya shrieks and hides behind me "shakal se Shareef nahi lag rahay" Maha follows Inaya and hides behind me pulling Hoorain with her "I think we should drive back" Hoorain affirms with her shivering state. "Make sure she doesn't have a PTSD episode" understanding her state I explain Maha and Inaya to be with her as I deal with these junkyards.
(They don't seem gentleman)
"Oho Raat Kay 3 baje akeli larkiya chalein madam apko ghar chordein" the guys get off their bikes and circles like vultures "where are you pretty ladies headed to" one of them sneers looking at us from head to toe.
(Ooh 3 am and lonely girls, madam can we drop you home?)
Anger fuming inside me, I hate how women are unprotected anywhere they go, men like them think that we women are frail and weak but they should know better than to harass girls like this.
"Back off" I say my voice strong and steady.
"oh feisty aren't you? We just want to join the party" he ignores me and reaches out to grab Hoorain's hand, before he can touch her I stand in front of him with fiery eyes "Touch her, and you'll regret it"
The guys laugh probably thinking that I'm bluffing "what will you little girls do?"
"Just remember if we girls can give birth to bastards like you then we can kill you effortlessly as well" I spin myself and send a flying kick to one of the boys under his legs making my ankle twist but I ignore the pain, one of them is already on his knees regretting to cross paths with us "you may think I'm fragile but watch me break your expectations"
Clenching my hands into a firm fist and land punch on another guy's face, the sound of his nose breaking sends a wave of satisfaction coursing through me "this punch is from every girl who's ever been mistreated or underestimated. We are not just fragile creatures, we are power in ourselves bastards"
After me Maha gaining up courage brings a rod from the car and starts hitting one of the boys meanwhile Inaya and Hoorain slaps the other boy. This is for every woman who is called weak.
The boys lay there on the ground with purple bruises and broken noses as we girls clap each other. Before I can land a last kick on their body the sound of approaching police sirens cuts through the night. Panic spreads among us and they all turn to me, wide-eyed and horrified.
"Eik musibat khatam nahi hoti Kay doosri ajati hai" Maha utters while masking a worried face.
(One problem doesn't end and another one arrives)
Inaya seems like she's about to vomit somewhere "Kis deewar pe sar maaru apna?"
(On which wall should I bang my head?)
"Koi nahi guys shyd wo hame chai paani pilaye" Hoorain yawns earning a glare from all of us.
(Don't worry guys maybe they'll treat us with tea and water)
"Ok guys let me handle this" I assure them although I'm scared myself. They should understand that we were harassed right?
The police car pulls up beside us with its lights flashing, and a stern-faced officer stepped out, shining a flashlight on the group. "What's going on here? Is everything okay?"
I step forward, attempting to explain, "Officer, we were justâ" before I can finish, the officer cuts me off, his gaze scanning each girl.
"You girls are out here this late? Where are your guardians? I need to speak with them."
"But officer," Maha interjects desperately, "those guys were harassing us! We were just defending ourselves!"
Hoorain nods vigorously, her voice trembling, "Yes, they were being really creepy!" Inaya adds, "We didn't do anything wrong!"
The officer shake his head, unmoved by their protests. "I need to take you all in. It's past curfew, and you should be at home. You all will be questioned in the station. Take these boys and the girls"
As much as I want to experiment my moves on this officer for not comprehending the gravity of this situation or supporting us, I can't worsen this situation.
The officer starts the car, and they pull away, leaving behind the deserted road and the chaotic remnants of our night.
As the reality sinks in, we exchange nervous glances, unsure of what the night would bring next.
"Next time, let's stick to dancing in the car," I remark wryly. "Agreed. No more spontaneous dance-offs with strangers," Maha chimes in, trying to lighten the mood.
"Can we at least turn this into a story worth telling?" Hoorain suggests optimistically.
"Definitely. The night we got arrested for being too awesome," Inaya adds with a nervous chuckle.
à¹â Ëâ â¥â Ëâ à¹
I glance around the dimly lit jail cell, disbelief still lingering from our unexpected detour from a fun night out. Inaya is pacing back and forth, her hands clasped together in worry.
"Guys, my dad is going to kill all of those cops for arresting me and then he'd kill me for sneaking out in the first place" she frets, her voice barely above a whisper.
Maha, always the one to find humor in the strangest situations, tries to lighten the mood. "Well, if we're going to be here for a while, can we at least order some pizza?"
Hoorain rolls her eyes, though a small smile tugs at her lips. "Maha, we're in jail, not at a restaurant" Maha shrugs. "Hey, a girl can dream."
As we sit there contemplating our predicament, an idea suddenly pops into our heads simultaneously. Maha grins mischievously, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I've got it! Let's tell them we have fiancés waiting for us. They can't keep us here if our imaginary fiancés demand our immediate release," she suggests, a hint of excitement in her voice.
"This is ridiculous Maha from where we are going to produce imaginary fiancés?" I complaint rubbing my temple trying to construct an idea.
"Actually this is brilliant" Inaya exclaims "anyone has Ahad Bhai's number?"
We all shake our heads and she sighs "anyone's number from BHG?"
Well I can find Zaid's number from a group Dr butt created, but I'm definitely not calling that Zaid Mirza to ask for help.
Looking at the girl's faces I hesitantly utter "I have Zaid's number but I'd rather die than to call him"
Hoorain nudges me playfully. "Come on, Ayra. This is our get-out-of-jail card."
"Yes Ayra please call him or else we all will be jail m chakki peesing and peesing" Maha tries her impressions and reluctantly I agree.
Reluctantly, I pull out my phone and dial Zaid's number. The phone rings once, twice, and just as I'm about to give up hopeâ
"Hello?" He says in his sleepy voice.
I was in a deep, peaceful slumber until a harsh ringtone pierce through the quietness of the bedroom. I groan and fumble for my phone, squinting at the bright screen with bleary eyes.
An unknown number is calling me at this hour, this should better be important. Unwillingly, my instincts force me to pick up the call.
"Hmh" I mutter already drifting back to sleep however the voice from the other end takes me by surprise "hey Zaid what were you doing?"
I feel like I'm in a dream state, why else would Ayra Shaikh call me at this hour just to inquire about my activity? I recheck the screen to make sure if someone really called me.
"I won't be dancing at 3 am. Of course I was sleeping, can't you let me sleep peacefully?" I ruffle my hair and shift my side in a puzzled state "why did you call me Ayra?" This should better be important or else she should start counting her days backward.
"I'm in a severe problem right now. Long story short come at police station and play along"
I jolt awake by the uncertainty of this moment, only Ayra can get herself into such deep situation but what terrifies me is image of her behind bars. I just hope she didn't murder anyone.
"WHAT THE FUCK!" I yell as I search for my glasses, knocking a few items on the table of my bed side "what the hell are you doing in jail?"
"Shut up Zaid!" The audacity of her to shut me up after asking for a severe favor. "Ayra whether you're politely speaking with me or else i'm declining the phone then and there"
"Alright Zaid come here and help me?" Her voice dripping with sarcasm, I'll remember writing this day with gold letters as Ayra Shaikh asked for my help.
"Help you?" I scoff, finally finding my glasses and shoving them off "why do you think I'll help you out of all the people?"
"Because you're a gentleman" she snaps "and I didn't do anything wrong besides beating some men"
I pause rubbing my temples in frustration "just when I think I couldn't hate you more, you prove me wrong. How did you even got yourself in this mess?"
"It's a long story Zaid and I don't have time to explain. Get here and get us out!" She snaps at me with her constant grumpy demeanor, I'm sure this is her first time asking anyone for help, this girl doesn't have any ethics.
"You should not be guilty Ayra or you'll regret it" I cut the call already hating myself for considering to go over there. But mom didn't raise me to deny a woman for assistance especially when she needs help at midnight.
But Zaid what about the moment where she chose herself over you? This is your moment for a revenge.
My inner voice mocks me but I can never consider sleeping here peacefully knowing that a girl is behind bars, and despite everything I know that I can't leave her alone.
As I dash out of the restroom, I stumble over a stray shoe in the hallway, crashing into the wall with a loud thud. The commotion rouses the others from their sleep.
Rayan peeks out from his blanket "what the hell is wrong Zaid? I thought only Ayan could do this absurdity"
"Ha ha har Baar to mein hi ghalat hota hu na" Ayan jolts awake from his slumber, energetic as always.
(Yes I'm guilty everytime)
Ahad, ever the serious one, pushes himself up on his elbows, his brow furrowed in concern. "Zaid, what's happening?" I sigh, running a hand through my hair. "Ayra's in trouble. She's at the police station, and she needs help. It sounds like the other girls might be involved too." Rayan's eyes widen slightly. "The girls? What did they do this time?"
Ayan lets out a laugh. "I'm sure it was Maha's crazy idea. She's always dragging everyone into her schemes."
Ahad's expression grows more intense, though he tries to keep his voice steady. "Is Hoorain okay?"
I shrug, my worry evident. "I don't know all the details. Ayra just said they were in trouble and needed help. We need to get to the station and find out what's going on."
Rayan nods, his usual reserved demeanor giving way to concern. "Alright, let's go. We can't leave them there."
Ayan's eyes sparkling with excitement. "Road trip to the police station! This is gonna be epic!" Ahad shakes, his concern evident. "Let's go, then. We can't waste any more time"
I'm sure he'll be biting his nails till we reach there thinking about Hoorain.
When we arrive at the hospital the air is thick with tension. We walk up to the front desk and the officers looks up, clearly uninterested in us "we're here to take the girls" I affirm with a loud and clear voice.
"So which one of you is fiance of that grey eyed girl?" What story has that fiery lady told him? "I am" I state earning scoffs and disinterested gazes but all I want right now is Ayra safe and sound.
"You should stop taunting her about everything so that she stops partying with her friends late at night to release her tension"
What? I would never taunt my fiance! Ayra you are dead.
"And don't shout on her when she asks about kids after marriage, Zain is a nice name"
Ok I'm registering an FIR at Ayra for all these lies, I mean who is this Zain?
"Sure sir" before I can speak further, Ahad takes the charge and speaks with him being our elder brother. The officer's colour fades as Ahad tells him about our surnames.
"You're the SADAQA groups heir?" He asks his tone much more respectful
Rayan steps forward, his expression stern.
"Yes, we are. Can we see them now?" The officer nods quickly, clearly recognizing our family's influence. "Of course. Right this way."
We follow him down a dimly lit corridor until we reach a holding area where the girls are sitting. Ayra, Maha, Hoorain, and Inaya look up as we approach, relief washing over their faces.
"You're free to go," the officer announces, unlocking the cell door. "Sorry for the inconvenience."
As the girls step out, Ayra mutters, "Thanks," but her eyes are already on us, a mixture of gratitude and embarrassment in her gaze.
As we step out of the police station, I grab Ayra's arm and pull her aside, my grip firm. "What were you thinking?" I hiss, my anger barely contained.
Ayra yanks her arm free, her eyes flashing with defiance. "What do you mean? Zaid some boy harassed us and did you want me to stay quiet? I stood up for my rights and those police officers arrested me for that!"
I take a deep breath, trying to control the storm of emotions inside me. I don't know what's gotten into me but the hatred inside me is replaced by desire to beat those men to death "You could have called us sooner. Why wait until you're behind bars?"
Her expression hardens, matching mine. "We were handling it. We didn't need your help."
"Obviously, you did," I snap back. "What if they hurt you girls? You're really strong Ayra but sometimes you need someone to rely on as well"
Ayra steps closer, her eyes blazing with anger. "You think I wanted this? We were doing fine until the police showed up and took their side. And no I'm fine all by myself"
I can feel my blood boiling, but I force myself to stay calm. "Describe the guys who harassed you"
Ayra smirks, a hint of satisfaction in her voice. "I broke their noses. They wonât forget us anytime soon."
I shake my head, frustration mounting. "I want you to describe the person who did this to you"
Her smirk fades, replaced by a look of stubborn determination. "What are you going to do, Zaid? Beat them up? Thatâs not going to solve anything."
I run a hand through my hair, exasperated. "Yes I will! I will ruin him for touching what's mine Ayra. Remember you're my target of revenge"
Ayra crosses her arms, her stance challenging. "Just shut up Zaid! Stop with all this target of revenge nonsense"
I step closer, lowering my voice. "It's not even about revenge. It's about keeping you safe. You're always getting into these situations, and it's driving me crazy."
Her expression remains stoic and firm. "I don't need you are anyone else keeping me safe, I'm fine all by myself"
Just as she's shouting at me, I notice her wince and shift her weight slightly. Her feet again shoot with pain. Without thinking, I grab her arm and make her sit on the nearest bench, despite her resistance.
"Zaid, what the hell are you doing?" she protests, trying to stand up.
I ignore her struggles and place her hand on my shoulder. "This will hurt for a moment," I say, my voice softer but still firm.
Before she can argue, I kneel down and take her foot in my hands, applying pressure in a specific spot. She gasps in pain, but a moment later, I adjust my grip, and the tension eases out of her foot.
"Ow! What did youâ?" She starts to ask, but the pain quickly dissipates, and she looks at me, surprise and relief in her eyes.
"It's a pressure point," I explain curtly, still holding her foot gently. "It helps relieve pain."
She stares at me, her expression still guarded. "Why do you even care, Zaid? I thought I was just your target of revenge."
I meet her gaze, my expression hardening again. "This isn't about caring. I just don't want my so-called 'target' to be useless."
She rolls her eyes, but her stoic demeanor remains. "You're impossible."
I help her stand up, making sure she's steady on her feet. "Yeah, well, you're not exactly a walk in the park either."
There's no softening between us, no moment of understanding. The tension is as thick as ever.
"Just... be more careful next time, alright?" I say, my tone still cold.
She nods, her eyes still locked on mine, unyielding. "Fine. But don't think this means I'm letting my guard down."
I smirk, stepping back. "I wouldn't expect anything less."
I don't know where Zaid and Ayra went? But Zaid's expressions conveyed that it wasn't good news. However the only thing I'm focused on right now is the shivering state of Inaya, I've always witnessed her as a cautious girl despite being involved in such adventurous tasks.
"Hey, Inaya, come with me," I say softly, guiding her towards a quieter corner away from the chaos. She follows, her steps hesitant but trusting.
Once we're settled, I give her a reassuring smile, trying to lighten the mood. "You know, I never thought of you for the adventurous type," I tease gently, hoping to see a hint of her usual spark.
Inaya looks up at me, her eyes wide and still a bit scared. "I... I just didn't expect things to get this intense," she admits.
I nod, understanding. "It's okay. Sometimes, things get a little crazy, but you know when you grow up these moments will be worth the risk" I wink, hoping to draw out even a small smile.
She rubs her arms, and I notice she's shivering more. Without thinking, I slip off my jacket and drape it over her shoulders. "Here, this should help."
Inaya looks up, surprised. "Thanks, Ayan. Now I know why you have many girlfriends"
I grin, trying to lighten the mood further. "I know right, I'm quite a charmer and a really good boy"
She laughs softly, the sound comforting. "But still don't think that you're charming me ever"
"Good, because I like a good challenge hazel" I say with a wink.
Inaya snuggles into the jacket, the shivering starting to subside. "Youâre actually kind of sweet" she admits, surprising me.
"Kind of?" I feign offense, placing a hand on my chest dramatically. "I'm the sweetest guy you'll ever meet."
"Well, donât get too cocky," she retorts, a playful glint in her eye. "But maybe we could be friends after all."
I pretend to think it over, tapping my chin. "Friends, huh? I guess I can live with that. As long as you promise not to fall for my undeniable charm."
She rolls her eyes, but there's a genuine smile on her face now. "I'll never fall for you Mr playboy"
"Time will tell" I say, rubbing my hands together. I never thought sitting quietly with Inaya under the canopy of stars would be this serene, she's a good friend.
Yet you're doing this?
Inaya looks at me with curiosity "Ayan you've never been in love with any of your stupid girls"
Without any hesitation I answer back "no never"
For me love is a strong emotion and all the girls that have been connected with me was only for my surname and status not because of who I am.
"Why?" she asks, genuinely curious.
"I've never found anyone like that," I admit, shrugging. "I don't know what love feels like. It's awkward, but I still think love feels like those 90s songs and all. Old school kinda love."
Inaya tilts her head, considering my words. "Thatâs kind of sweet, actually. Like youâre waiting for something real."
"Exactly," I say, nodding. "When someone likes me for who I am, not the playboy image or anything else, I'll love that person."
Inaya smiles softly, her eyes warm. "You know, Ayan, I think thatâs a really good way to look at it. And Iâm sure youâll find someone like that."
"Thanks, Inaya," I say, feeling a bit more hopeful. "Maybe I will. And until I find someone who can bring my true version, I'll keep being this Ayan"
"Good," she replies, squeezing my hand. "Because that's not a bad way to find love"
I chuckle, feeling lighter than I have in a while. "Well, coming from you, that means a lot."
We sit there for a moment, just enjoying the newfound connection between us. And for the first time in a long time, I feel like maybe, just maybe, there's more to life than the image I've been putting on.
As Rayan and Maha leave to get the car, I find myself alone with Hoorain. I canât explain what I feel for her. Thereâs something about her that draws me in, something that makes me want to see her smile, to keep her safe. Every time she's hurt, it cuts me deeper than I care to admit. What is this feeling?
I glance at her, noting how uncomfortable she looks without her shoes. In her haste, she must have forgotten them. My protective instincts kick in, and without thinking, I make a decision.
"Hoorain," I call her softly, drawing her attention. "Sit down for a minute."
She looks at me, puzzled, but complies. I kneel down and begin unlacing my shoes. "What are you doing?" she asks, her voice tinged with confusion.
"You canât walk around barefoot," I reply, keeping my voice gentle yet firm. "Take my shoes."
"No, Ahad, I canât. You'll be barefoot," she protests, shaking her head.
I give her a small smile, one that I hope reassures her. "Iâll be fine. Just take them, okay?"
Reluctantly, she slips her feet into my shoes, and I help her tie the laces. Standing up, I canât help but feel a sense of satisfaction seeing her slightly more comfortable. I, on the other hand, walk barefoot, but I donât mind.
As we start walking towards the exit, I glance at her. "You know, you really should take better care of yourself," I say, trying to keep the conversation light.
She looks down, her expression a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. "I just didnât think... everything happened so fast."
I nod, understanding. "Yeah, I get that. Just... try to be more careful next time."
We fall into a comfortable silence for a moment before she speaks again. "Ahad, why do you care so much? I mean, youâre always looking out for me."
I pause, unsure how to answer. How do I explain something I donât fully understand myself? "I guess... I just donât like seeing you hurt," I say finally, hoping itâs enough.
She looks at me, her eyes searching mine. "Thank you," she says softly, her voice sincere.
I shrug, trying to downplay the moment. "Itâs nothing, really. Just... stay out of trouble, okay?"
She smiles, a small but genuine smile that makes my heart skip a beat. "Iâll try," she promises.
As we reach the exit, I feel a strange sense of contentment. Maybe I donât know what this feeling is, but for now, it's enough just to be there for her. To see her smile, to know she's safe. That's all that matters.
Weâre walking to the car, and Maha is chattering away, recounting every detail of the night's events. I nod occasionally, my usual grumpy self, but I can't help but listen. Because I'm aware that even if I ask this girl to stay quiet she'll still speak for hours.
"...and then Ayra just went off on that officer! You shouldâve seen her face, Rayan. She was so fierce!" Maha says, her eyes shining with excitement.
I grunt in response, my mind half-listening but fully focused on her animated expressions. Sheâs always like thisâfull of life and energy, never holding back. I don't know if people like her truly exist or not but there she is.
"You know, Rayan," she continues, "tonight made me realize how strong we all are when we stand together. I mean, we faced off against those creeps and even dealt with the police without backing down."
I nod again, "Youâre all a bunch of lunatics," I mutter "no sane person would consider dancing on the road that too at midnight and munni bandnam huyi"
She laughs, "Maybe we are, but weâve got each otherâs backs. Thatâs what matters."
As we reach the car, she turns to me, her expression softening. "Thanks for coming, Rayan. I know you probably think Iâm crazy, but it means a lot that youâre here."
I shrug, feeling a bit awkward under her grateful gaze. "Save it because I know you'll end up doing something crazier than this"
She smiles, and itâs like the sun coming out after a storm. At this rate I feel like nothing can make her pessimistic "you know me quite too much"
I roll my eyes "what can I do to make you stop talking?"
"Nothing" she laughs "I'll never stop sharing my thoughts"
As we stand beside the car waiting for the rest of the group, I can't help but ask her regarding the latest project maybe I still have a chance.
"What about your latest project?" I ask as she stops jumping here and there like a kid "well no idea is better than the latest only if you weren't so rude to reject it"
"I told you Maha, fake date me and I'll help you"
"Fake date you? But why do you want to date me?" She asks but I'm prepared for this question "because you're not interested in me and you're not my type so it will be easier to part our ways"
She stays quiet and for a moment I can say that she's giving it a thought "think about it Maha it's a mutually beneficial offer"
"Alright" she finally agrees with my offer "but there will be a contract for it"
Knowing Maha she'll always indulge silly prospects into everything.
"Deal Maha Aamir"
Before we continue our conversation, others join us as we all pile into the cars, I canât help but feel a strange sense of contentment. This group, this crazy, unpredictable group, has become something I didnât realize I needed. And as grumpy as I am, I wouldnât trade them for anything.
(â à¹â Ëâ â¥â Ëâ à¹â )
Hey guys I hope y'all are doing fine and well â¤ï¸âð©¹
I'm really thankful to each one of you who takes their time to read my books.
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