Six months later:
The music was subtle and soft as Wafa continued to write her assignments, literally on the verge of falling asleep.
She'd played the music in the hopes that it would keep her awake but it was not helping. On top of it, her finals are coming up in two weeks. Most of her time is caught up with studies these days.
But it will be all worth it, she told herself whilst scribbling on the A4 sheet again. The knob of their main door clicked open, catching her momentary attention.
Her husband walked in with an unusual frown on his face. It only deepened as their eyes clashed. She was writing endlessly almost forgetting that he was running late. It was close to midnight.
But Wafa understood that he would have a good reason to stay back late and she passed him an apologetic smile whilst pointing at her assignments. Shahzaib shook his head uninterestedly and strode towards their room.
It's usually their thing that she'd wait for him to come back home and then attack him with kisses and hugs which would then end up becoming something more somedays. They'll also have coffee together, discussing their day. It was a fun routine. The one which they randomly picked up after she came back from her field trip. Warmth filled her heart as she recollected those moments.
And it felt like ages ago since they last did that.
Wafa was too caught up with studies to spare a minute for anything else these days. She knew Shahzaib would understand. He always did.
She clicked her tongue whilst gazing at his retreating figure, trying to recall if she has done something to upset him. Something felt off with the way he just walked. There was nothing she could recollect, so she continued her work. Her eyes were getting closed in tiredness but she was stubborn to finish this before dawn. The music was not helping so she turned it off annoyedly.
The past six months have been a roller coaster, to say the least. There have been many ups and downs. They grew close. Their marriage life was great. It became as real as it could get. But there were also bad days. Days which would sometimes make Wafa question if they were even meant to be together, for both of them were equally stubborn and egoistic. Their fights have always been on the edge. But somehow they make up and life just went on.
So, Wafa wasn't really sure what was wrong with Shahzaib right now as she couldn't recall them fighting over something recently. She'll ask him later, she thought and continued writing. But her eyelids felt really heavy, making it hard for her.
A surprised yelp escaped her lips as she felt herself being lifted into the air out of nowhere.
"What the hell, Shahzaib?" She narrowed her eyes as he scooped her in his arms, "shush." He still looked angry, so Wafa didn't try to defy him but she was curious about what was it with him.
"I should write," She argued as he dropped her on their bed. She bounced a little before sitting straight as she passed him a look of annoyance.
"Lie down." Shahzaib pushed her back on the mattress forcibly, scowling at her, "have you seen yourself, Wafa?"
She opened her mouth but he gave her a look that said- don't even start. He was angry but the hidden care behind his actions made her heart skip a few beats.
"I understand that studies are important. But not at the cost of your health. Have you even eaten anything?"
Wafa looked away immediately, wincing as she has completely forgotten about that part. It slipped her mind because they'd usually have dinner together and she didn't even cook anything, to begin with. She could feel his heated gaze upon her.
"I don't think so," He muttered moodily, "I sometimes don't know what to do with you. Why are you so careless?" He grumbled whilst removing his watch and then started unbuttoning his shirt.
She looked up at him sheepishly as her gaze moved to his hands as he undid each button. He clicked his tongue before discarding his shirt into a corner. Wafa wanted to give him the piece of her mind for not placing it in the laundry bag like she always asked him to, but kept quiet knowing he was genuinely mad at her. It won't end well if she picks a fight with him now.
"I lost track of time," She argued whilst trying to get off the bed but he glared at her again, "you're not stepping out of here." His voice was firm and authoritative, she wanted to argue but lay back down with a huff.
The soft mattress felt heavenly and peaceful as she let herself relax for a while. Enjoying the warmth of their bed as she forgets all about her finals and the stupid assignments. She was tired. Assignments should wait.
Her eyes snapped open as she felt someone standing beside her. Shahzaib gazed down at her softly as she stared at him questioningly.
"Get up," He took a seat beside her. His shirtlessness was too distracting and she didn't hide her admiration this time. They were way past that stage. She still blushes a lot but Wafa could say they were both shameless when it came to each other these days. Also, Shahzaib Hussain was a slight to behold, with or without a shirt.
Her stomach felt all mushy and giddy as he passed her a bowl of Maggie noodles. It was the easiest and quickest thing he could come up with at this time and Wafa fell for him all over again.
"You didn't have to," She mumbled while he rolled his eyes, "I sometimes hate how careless you get with yourself. What if you fall sick?"
"I won't." She argued lamely.
"But have you eaten anything?" She questioned him worriedly, "I did." His voice became edgy and distant suddenly.
"Why were you late?"
"Now you want to ask." She felt like he was taunting her.
"I'm sorry, I lost track of time. I didn't realize it was this late." His eyes softened a little as he shook his head, "it's alright. Eat now. It's getting cold."
"Thanks for this, Zaib." He leaned in and stole a kiss from her, making her all red and fluttering. The sleep disappeared from her eyes suddenly as she ducked down, trying to fight off the blush. He cupped her cheeks, pulling her in for another hard kiss. She kissed him back just as demandingly. Her Maggie remained long forgotten but she held it firmly, not wanting his hard work to go in vain.
"I miss you these days," He whispered against her lips as they broke apart.
She could feel the hidden vulnerability behind those words and felt her guilt creeping in. He captured her lips again, more possessively this time. Her eyes closed automatically as she gave in to him before he pulled apart abruptly.
"Eat." He rasped.
Wafa was not sure if she was hungry but she ate for his sake while he went to change into his night dress.
Her heart felt heavy as she recalled his words.
It was like, they were so close yet so far. They hadn't spent quality time with each other in forever now. All because she was busy. Too busy. And it made her just as guilty and sad.
She was done eating when Shahzaib came back to join her on the bed, he didn't speak another word. She watched his back silently before moving towards him with an inward sigh.
He stilled as she wrapped her arms around his torso and placed her head against his chest, probably he was not expecting her to come close to him. Wafa wanted to say something, the silence was too disturbing today.
"Shahzaib," He didn't respond to her at first but moved his hands around her waist, pulling her more into him, as they snuggled comfortably. A small smile crept up her cheeks as she looked up at him. He had his eyes closed.
"I know you're awake." She whispered but he didn't say anything. She sighed defeatedly before placing her head in the crook of his neck, "I know I'm too busy these days. I don't spend so much time with you," His grip on her tightened but he still didn't speak anything.
"I swear after my exams, I'll be free. We can plan a trip somewhere. Or else, let's just go out tomorrow. I'll be free after twelve." Shahzaib opened his eyes instantly and stared down at her. She passed him a hopeful smile.
"Really?" He asked.
She nodded eagerly, feeling excited at the thought of spending time with him as well. It's been a while, and even though they were together in the same room, it was like they were miles apart.
"I'll pick you up," He smiled for the first time that night and she felt her heart flip. His smiles are so charming.
"Done." She placed a kiss near his neck making him groan, "stop. You look tired."
"What if I don't want to," Wafa smiled mischievously.
"You're such a minx," He muttered as she placed kisses around his chest, "you need sleep, Wafa."
She pouted, "I know."
"Then stop giving me those looks and sleep," He gazed at her amusedly, and she chuckled before closing her eyes and fell into deep slumber almost instantly. She was extremely tired and it didn't take much effort to fall asleep that night.
The next morning arrived rather quickly and Shahzaib was in a very chirpy mood. Wafa could see it clear as ice.
"Remember our date after twelve," He told her the first the thing as she woke up. Wafa nodded with a smile as she suppressed a sleepy yawn, "of course." He was looking forward to it, it seemed. And so was she.
"I'll take the driver with me today. The classes don't start until nine. You told me that you have a meeting at eight today."
"You remembered," His surprise-filled voice made her frown, "I do remember."
"I didn't think you were paying attention that day," He complained whilst combing his hair. He was getting ready to leave. It was just seven thirty and it looked like Wafa overslept. Her eyes widened as she gazed at the clock suddenly.
"Oh my! It's seven-thirty. Why didn't you wake me up?" Wafa sat up at once and tied her hair in a messy bun.
"You were tired. I didn't want to disturb you." His kind words made her smile unknowingly, "but what about the breakfast?" The smile was replaced with instant worry.
"It's not your duty to cook every day anyway. I've made breakfast for the both of us, brush your teeth and come quickly. I need to leave."
A bright smile appeared on her lips as she threw herself at him, he caught hold of her quickly before they both would fall and wrapped his arms around her waist protectively, "you're the best husband ever, Zaib. Thank you. Thank you so much,"
"It's nothing. Go and brush." He placed a kiss on her forehead before pulling away.
Wafa bobbed her head excitedly and ran inside the bathroom as she heard him chuckle behind her.
"It smells delicious." She commented whilst taking a seat at their dining table. Shahzaib passed her a fond look before serving her plate. She looked at him dreamily.
They ate their breakfast in silence whilst passing soft smiles at each other. Her mind subconsciously slipped towards those incomplete assignments making her frown.
"What's wrong?" Shahzaib asked. She shook her head, "just those assignments you didn't let me finish last night." He rolled his eyes but didn't say anything.
"I'm getting late, see you later then." He got up from his seat, whilst picking up his plate. She smiled at him while he placed it in the sink and turned towards her, "message me after you reach college."
He'd always ask her to keep him posted about her whereabouts. The gesture was so simple yet so touching. Wafa didn't have anyone else ask her to do those things before. It made her feel cared for.
"I'll see you later," Wafa stilled on her seat as he leaned down and kissed her cheeks. He lingered for a few seconds before pulling away.
Shahzaib nodded at her before walking out. She quickly drank a glass of water and ran outside. She was panting yet a bright smile appeared on her face as she stood on their porch, watching him start his car.
Shahzaib's eyes lit up as he noticed her. She waved at him happily.
The day felt so good. Or she thought.
***
"What do you mean?" Wafa was annoyed as she sat back down in her seat, looking horrified.
"VA ma'am is taking those three hours extra class today." Another girl whispered to her friend while Wafa stared at her friends like she has seen a ghost.
"Tell me it's not true," She was almost on the verge of tears. Humera and Zunera looked concerned as they passed her worried glances.
"I promised Shahzaib that we'll spend time together today."
"Waffles babe, you know that lady. She has threatened to cut off our assignments marks if we don't attend the class today." Humera added. Wafa groaned in frustration now.
"Knowing that psychopath, she will." Zunera's words didn't help her at all. She stared at the time, it was eleven thirty so she called Shahzaib immediately, not wanting him to waste his time by coming all the way from the office only to be disappointed by her.
"What's up?" Shahzaib answered within the first ring, making her panic. She bit her lips, trying to stop herself from tearing up. She hated this.
"Shahzaib. I'm so sorry," Wafa began hesitantly, trying to compose herself. There was a moment of silence before he muttered in a distant voice, "you can't make it. Got it,"
"It's not like that, I'm so-" She couldn't continue because he has already hung up on her. Wafa's heart sunk in despair as she gazed at the phone. She tried calling again. But he didn't answer.
"He's mad at me," She mumbled to her friends who passed her sympathetic glances. She placed her head against the desk, closing her eyes for a few moments before the extra class will begin. She tried calling him again but to no avail.
The day was supposed to be awesome. But not quite like this.
Wafa knew she was hurting Shahzaib with her busy schedule. It hurt her even more in all honesty.
"Cheer up, he will understand once you explain to him," Zunera spoke encouragingly.
But will he?
The first thing Wafa did after she was done with her class was to run to the parking lot and asked her driver to hurry up to Shahzaib's office. She wanted to clear things between them. Sooner the better.
"Stop nearby a flower shop. I want to buy something." Wafa wanted something with her as she apologized. The flowers sounded great. But she dreaded facing him after the last conversation on the phone. He sounded so distant and uninterested.
After picking the bouquet of roses and a card. Wafa sat back in the car again. She took her pen and wrote a big sorry on the card.
She hoped that he will not that mad once she explains her part.
Her heart was pounding crazily once they reached the Hussain firm. People sort of started giving her extra respect these days, but she couldn't care less.
"Ma'am, I'm sorry but you can't go inside." Shahzaib's new assistant stopped her before she would walk into his office. Wafa huffed whilst catching some breath. She walked here as fast as she could, getting a few curious glances on her way.
"Why not?"
"Mr. Hussain is in an important meeting, he should not be disturbed." Wafa's face fell as she glanced at the door.
It was like, everything was against her suddenly. She nodded at the assistant understandingly.
"I'll wait in the lobby. Just let him now I'm here." The girl nodded with a smile.
"Can I get you anything?"
"Water please,"
Wafa mumbled incoherently before taking a seat on the sofa. She felt annoyed with herself for promising something and not being able to keep up with those words. Her heart began to beat frantically as Shahzaib's office door opened. He took a glance at her as she stood up with a hopeful smile but it disappeared immediately as he ignored her like she didn't exist and walked away. Her grip on the flowers tightened whilst watching his retreating back.
He did not just do that.
The assistant came back with a glass of water.
"I am sorry, but I gotta go. Can you pass this to your boss for me?" The girl took the bouquet with a pleasant smile, "sure Mrs. Hussain."
Wafa smiled a fake smile before getting the hell out of there.
Her day could not have gotten any worse.
***
It was close to eleven-thirty, and Wafa was furiously getting her work done. Preparing for her finals. She was super sad which made her finish things a lot faster than when she would have in a normal state. She was weird like that.
There was a faint sound of the main door clicking open and she was on alert. Keeping her head hung low, concentrating just on writing and studying. Wafa needed a moment to compose herself before facing him again.
She didn't lift her head but she could see him holding the flowers she got for him. Her heart warmed knowing he didn't throw it away.
Why did she even think that way was beyond her. But it felt good to see him holding that bouquet. He has at least acknowledged her apology. Or so she hoped.
She couldn't do anything now that she was aware of his presence in the room. He didn't initiate a conversation but he did replace their old vase with the one she got for him. She was not sure how mad he was.
"Shahzaib..." She muttered his name, trying to test the waters. But he didn't bother even glancing at her and that freaking hurt. Biting her lips, she continued her studying. But nothing went into her head.
"Shahzaib, I'm sorry." Tossing away her books, Wafa got up frustratedly, trying to get his attention. He stopped for a moment before walking into the bathroom. He didn't bother glancing at her at all.
Tears welled up in her eyes at his blatant ignorance. Feeling hurt, she picked up her things and walked towards the guest room, not wanting to be in the same room as him, fearing she'd end up being a crying mess otherwise.
Their fights were always on the extreme. And knowing Shahzaib, he needed some time to collect his thoughts.
But Wafa was hurting too. It was not like she knowingly backed out at the last moment.
Feeling weary, she hopped into the bed which felt alien to her. She never considered she'd have to sleep on this someday. It was depressing to think about the events of the day. But it was not like she could change anything anyway.
Sleep was far away from her eyes. On the contrary, Wafa was scared of sleeping alone. Now that she has come this far, she can't go back there. Her stubborn self wouldn't let her.
The door creaked open all of a sudden, making her aware of someone else's presence.
She closed her eyes instantly. But her heart stopped thumping for a second as he joined her on the bed. Wafa's breathing went uneven as she felt him wrap his arms around her, nestling into her tightly.
Was she dreaming? It looked like she was.
"I'm still mad at you," He mumbled whilst breathing against her neck.
It was moments like these, which makes her feel content knowing they are in this together, forever.
They may not be okay right now.
But they will be. Wafa was sure of that.