The grandeur of Khan Haveli was a stark contrast to the lively streets of Hyderabad. The opulent interiors, with their intricate carvings and plush furnishings, were set to host a rather unconventional guest—Zarina Khala. Known for her boundless energy and sometimes overbearing charm, Zarina Khala was arriving to bless the newlyweds, Meerab and Murtasim. Though her visit had been delayed, she was now ready to make up for her absence with a flourish.
As Zarina Khala entered the haveli, she was greeted by Murtasim, whose expression was a mix of relief and trepidation. “Khala, it’s so wonderful to see you!” he said, embracing her warmly. “We missed you at the wedding.”
Zarina Khala’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “Murtasim, my dear, it’s delightful to see you too! I’m terribly sorry I couldn’t be there for the wedding, but I’m here now, and I intend to make up for it.”
“Thank you, Khala,” Murtasim said, guiding her into the sitting area where Meerab awaited. Meerab, who had been nervously preparing for the visit, greeted Zarina Khala with a mixture of warmth and apprehension.
“Assalamualaikum, Zarina Khala,” Meerab said, trying to project calm. “Welcome to our home.”
“Waalaikum Assalam, Meerab dear!” Zarina Khala said with enthusiastic affection, enveloping Meerab in a tight hug. “You look radiant! Just like a new bride should.”
Meerab’s cheeks flushed, and she forced a smile. “Thank you, Khala. Please, make yourself comfortable.”
Zarina Khala settled into the plush sofa with a sigh of contentment. “I’ve been dying to catch up with you both and hear all about your honeymoon. But first, let me bless you with a little gift.”
From her handbag, Zarina Khala produced a small, intricately wrapped box. “I’m so sorry I missed your wedding. This is just a little something to make up for it.”
Meerab took the box with curiosity and unwrapped it to reveal a delicate, intricately designed necklace. “This is beautiful, Khala. Thank you so much.”
“You’re welcome, dear,” Zarina Khala said with a satisfied smile. “Now, let’s talk about married life. How are you two settling in?”
Murtasim cleared his throat, glancing at Meerab with an uncertain look. “Well, we’re still adjusting. It’s been a few days, so…”
“Oh, adjusting?” Zarina Khala said, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “I remember the early days of my marriage like they were yesterday. Your khalu and I were so infatuated, we could hardly keep our hands off each other!”
Meerab’s face turned crimson. She glanced sideways at Murtasim, who looked uncomfortable but was trying to maintain his composure. Zarina Khala’s stories were growing increasingly personal, and neither of them was prepared for what was coming next.
Zarina Khala continued with unabated enthusiasm. “You know, on our wedding night, Khalu surprised me with a romantic setup. We had candles everywhere, and the room was filled with the scent of roses. But, oh, the best part was when we...”
Zarina Khala’s voice lowered to a conspiratorial whisper. “Well, let’s just say Khalu was very inventive. I remember one particular evening when he decided to try something new. It involved a lot of... let's just say, unconventional positions and techniques. It was exciting, to say the least!”
Meerab’s discomfort grew evident as her face flushed deeper. She glanced at Murtasim, who looked equally troubled but was trying to mask his unease. Zarina Khala, oblivious to their growing distress, continued to regale them with explicit anecdotes.
“And then there was the time Khalu decided to try out a new... uh, accessory. It was a bit of a surprise for me, let’s put it that way. I was caught off guard, but oh, the thrill of it all!” Zarina Khala said, her eyes gleaming with nostalgia. “I’m sure Murtasim here would have plenty of similar stories to share.”
