39: birthday eve

10k special <3

ZAVIYAAR'S POV:

I shared with her everything that happened, except for the details regarding the kiss, as I didn't want to make her feel embarrassed. We spent the entire day at the penthouse. The whole went by Aaliyana and I shared our stories, and she told me how she spent her spell in Canada. The way she was giggling, made me beam a lot. She mentioned how she once almost burnt everything in her dorm's kitchenette just because she tried to make something. She doesn't know how to cook, like only knows the basics. That is the reason why her roommate never let her cook or mostly the would eat out. And she never cooks until something is special, really special.

Aaliyana was also endeavoring to reminisce about what occurred last night but I stopped her by saying that she doesn't need to put her pretty brain under stress. We reverted back home at night, after spending a day full of comfort.

The next day

Tonight at 12 it's Aaliyana's birthday. She hasn't still hasn't told me anything about her birthday. I wonder why? And I guess she thinks I don't know her birthday, but obviously I do. Everyone in the home is aware except for me that's what she thinks. But little did she know I was planning to give her the best birthday ever. And Noor and Malaika have helped me a lot. I've called Malaika for her birthday because I know how much she notices her absence. I'm still here, in the office, trying to sum up everything as soon as possible, so I can be there at midnight.

AALIYANA'S POV:

Tonight at midnight marks the start of my birthday. Everyone in the KHAN mansion is aware of the occasion, but I don't think he knows about it because he hasn't mentioned anything. I feel a bit let down, but I realize it's my own fault for not communicating it to him.

At almost 5 pm, and Zaviyaar was still not here, Mom, Dad, Zayyan, and Malaika came into my room to wish me an advanced birthday. They were so thoughtful, asking if there was anything specific I wanted for my birthday. I assured them that I had everything I needed and that I didn't require anything else. They even offered to organize a whole party for me, but I politely declined their offer.

(Dadi has shifted to England with Chachu's family as she needed better treatment and the doctors there were a lot better)

After some time, Noor gave me a call, and I ended up having a lengthy conversation with her. I shared with her the details of the recent altercation I had with Zaviyaar. She seemed quite taken aback after hearing about the situation. Additionally, I informed her about the unfortunate passing of Ayyan, my boss.

She gave me the details about her and Asad. And I was taken aback when she told me that, she and Asad are finally dating. The OG couple for me. She told me the whole story, of how Asad proposed to her. It was all dreamy. I still don't like Asad but if she's happy, then I'm happy. And I told her we need to catch up really soon, we are not able to meet, because Malaika is mostly at her job, but guess what she is coming back for my birthday. And Noor is also engaged in her shoots and interviews, as she's a growing sensation.

I find myself longing for the nostalgia of past get-togethers with Malaika and Noor. There are countless things I want to share with them, and I am determined to arrange a girls' night out in the near future.

I found myself reaching for my novel to terminate the boredom that was creeping in as I waited for Zaviyaar to return home. The clock was inching towards 8 pm, and I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was anticipating something from him. I had to remind myself not to get my hopes up too high, fearing that it might only lead to disappointment and heartbreak.

I descended the staircase and made my way to the dining area to have dinner.

"Aaliyana Zaviyaar abhi tak kyu nhi aya ausko pata nhi ke tumhara birthday hai," Mom asked.

(Aaliyana, why isn't Zaviyaar home yet?)

The disappointment overwhelmed me as I wished he had been there. Tears filled my eyes, reflecting my emotions.

"Wo Zaviyaar ki aj meeting hai shayad ais Liye deir hogai hogi," I said trying to smile but couldn't.

(Um, actually I guess he had a meeting today so he's getting late.)

"Arrey Bhabhi Bhai apke ke surprise plan karhe hon gaye ais Liye nhi aye abhi take," Zayyan teased.

(Bhabhi, Zaviyaar must be planning a surprise for you.)

I faked a laugh.

"Aaliyana waise kya plan hai birthday ka," Malaika asked.

(Aaliyana, what have you guys planned?)

"As such tu Kuch plan nhi Kiya," I tried not to cry.

(Nothing in specific.)

"Malaika tum bhi ajeeb baat karti hoo. Zaviyaar bhai plan karhe Hoon gaye na Bhabhi ka birthday." Zayyan said

(Malaika you are weird. Zaviyaar must be planning something.)

"Arrey bas Karo Aaliyana beta ap Khana Khao ye dono toh Pagal Hain," Dad said.

(Stop it both of you, Aaliyana you have your food.)

"Aaliyana Tum aik baar zaviyaar ko call Karke pouch Lena ke wo kab tak aye ga," Mom said.

(Aaliyana, do call him and ask him when will he come back?)

I nodded, as I could feel knots forming in my throat, Why did I feel hurt? It was me who hadn't told him about my birthday, and if he doesn't wish me that's my fault, not his.

I returned to my room, feeling a mix of emotions. I hesitated for a moment, but then I made the decision to reach out and call him. With each ring, my heart raced, and when he finally answered after the third ring, I felt a surge of relief.

"Aaliyana I'm a little busy. If there's something important then text me okay," he said and hung the call.

Did he just hang up the call in my face? I couldn't believe it. He didn't even let me speak. I felt a mixture of frustration and sadness welling up inside me, and tears stung at the corners of my eyes. Despite the hurt and frustration, I managed to collect myself and keep my emotions in check.

It was nearly 10 pm, and I found myself lounging on the couch, engrossed in the captivating world of reels. Suddenly, I had the urge to switch things up, so I reached for a novel to pass the time.

As the clock struck 11:15, I waited anxiously for him to arrive, but he didn't come. Disappointment washed over me, and I couldn't help but feel heartbroken. I questioned whether I should have even expected him to come in the first place. Although tears didn't fall, I felt the urge to cry. I continued to wait until midnight, but I'm not sure exactly when I eventually drifted off to sleep.

I was woken up by some voices. I opened my eyes to see everyone standing in front of me. Malaika was there holding a small cake in her hand. Mom, Dad, Zayyan, Malaika, Mama, Baba, Ahmed Bhai, Daniyal, Noor, and even Azlaan was there.

They all started wishing me happy birthday. I was overwhelmed but my eyes were continuously searching for that one specific person who was not there.

Noor and Malaika came forward and hugged me. Everyone was holding their gifts. But I didn't need anything but I need him. I need zaviyaar to be here with me. But at this point, I had lost all hope that he would come. The thing that was hurting me to the core was, that he never work this late. Then why today?

Azlaan witnessed that I was searching for him, I saw him reaching a head.

"He will come don't worry," he said while handing a sad smile. I endeavored to beam but unfortunately failed. Everyone's attention went towards Azlaan when his phone rang. Is it Zaviyaar? The first thought came to my mind.

"Chalo Aaliyana ab cake kato." Daniyal said I bounced my skull.

Malaika handed me the cake.

The cake was adorable. But I sensed vaguely without him. I desire him to stand with me. I felt sad, I wanted to cry my heart out. Zaviyaar, I wish you were here.

"Make a wish," Noor chirped.

I latched my eyes and made a wish that I wanted him to be with me.

"Wish granted Sweetheart," a voice made me unfurl my eyes. My favorite voice in the whole world.

I opened my gaze to see him in front of me. I couldn't help but grin. I was happy he was here with me. My heart fluttered. I couldn't help but redden at the situation. I shoved butterflies back into the ribcage. I couldn't regulate them.

Zaviyaar's POV:

Tonight is AALIYANA'S birthday. I had to do a lot today. I didn't have any office meetings so today I just had to conclude everything for tomorrow. I want everything to be on point, ideal, just like her.

I was in my car when Azlaan phoned me and reported that an important meeting came up, we can't linger or withdraw it, so I've to attend it. I propelled to my office and I attended the meeting which was 4 hours long it was 4 pm already. And I had to finalize everything on time.

Unfortunately, I was late when the clock hit 11:45 I was leaving. I wanted to be there before 12. Beforehand I phoned Mom and told her my plan for tomorrow. She was really delighted so she called her family over to wish Aaliyana at midnight because tomorrow she won't be here.

I was on my way home when I phoned Azlaan. He picked up in no time.

"Zaviyaar, where are you?" he whispered yelled.

"I'm on my way," I said.

"Bhai tu jaldi aja, I could feel bhabhi was sad," my heart dropped. I ended the call.

(Brother, try to come fast)

And here we go, my car ceased. It seems like everything in this universe is stopping me from going home. I'm pissed right now. I tried to calm myself as I needed to get home as soon as possible. Taking a deep breath, I started the car again, and it worked.

"Please, no more hurdles," I whispered to no one.

I reached home in no time, not forgetting I broke the speed limit because it couldn't be possible without it. I entered the home it was 12:05 pm, and I was late. When I entered the room she was making a wish. I knew she was asking for me to be with her. Don't question me how. I just knew it. Gut feeling I guess.

"Wish granted Sweetheart," I said

She opened her eyes. Her eyes had tears. She had a genuine smile on her face. I was holding a rose bouquet. I went towards and side-hugged her.

"Happy birthday Liyana," I said pecking her head and giving her the chaplet.

She mouthed thank you and cut the cake. I knew she was happy. More than happy I guess. And it made me happy.

Everyone gave her the gifts and started leaving the room at last Noor and Malaika were left.

"Have fun you both," Noor while snickering.

"Don't forget to share pictures from tomorrow," Malaika said while going out.

I must say my sister and Noor have helped me a lot through the surprise. It wouldn't be possible without them. Now I hope she likes it. Ah, I'm nervous about the surprise and excited to see her reaction.

AALIYANA'S POV:

Which pictures? What is tomorrow? I mean it's my birthday but if we celebrate it then she'll be with us. And what was Noor talking about enjoy? That was weird. ufff. I thought.

I sighed

"Don't stress your pretty brain," Zaviyaar said.

"You remembered," I said looking at him all dreamy.

"Of course how I can not remember the birthday of my Sweetheart." he made my cheeks all red.

"But I didn't tell you?" I raise an eyebrow.

"I've my ways, sweetheart," he pecked the crown of my head. I blushed again. Not forgetting my stomach did a thing.

"Let's sleep we have to wake up early," he said

"Why?" I questioned

"You'll get to know shortly," he said while having a mischievous smirk on his face.

"Can you just give a hint?" I couldn't help but ask.

"Nope, let's sleep," he pulled me towards him. My back made contact with his hard chest. These butterflies in my stomach are running out of oxygen. I could feel his slow breathing on my neck, which sent shivers down my spine. I couldn't help but blush.

Soon I doz off to sleep.

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I'll meet you with the next chapter, till then take care.

plus you can follow me on Instagram bibliobazaar___ you can also follow Zaviyaar and Aaliyana on Instagram, their IDs are mentioned on my Instagram account under the highlight named accounts.

Ignore if you find any mistake as English isn't my first language.

Lots of love,

Zaar <3