Zayd has landed in the city of Lucknow India, the city that will change both his and an innocent's destiny.He will soon meet someone who will change his life for better or worse.
"Mr.Ahmed how much time will it take for us to reach the haveli" Inquired Zayd sitting in his lavish car while Mr.Ahmed directed the person driving the car to their location
"About an hour sir"
Zayd sighed and nodded looking out of the black tinted car window. He observed the night in lucknow
At 2 AM, Lucknow is calm and quiet, with the usually bustling streets now almost empty. The dim streetlights cast a soft yellow glow on the wide roads, reflecting off the old buildings and monuments. The cool night breeze gently rustles the leaves of the trees lining the streets. In the distance, the illuminated domes of the city's famous landmarks,Bara Imambara, stand tall against the dark sky. The air smells fresh, with a faint hint of flowers and the lingering scent of spices from the day's cooking. Everything feels still, as if the city is resting.
The view was worth seeing, and Zayd felt a sense of peace in the air of Lucknow. He finally after gaping at the view rested his head on the headrest with his grey eyes closed enjoying the peace
••••••••
Noor sat cross-legged on the soft carpet of her cozy room, adorned with pastel hues and delicate decorations that reflected her vibrant spirit. Dressed in a beautiful red, flowing salwar suit, the fabric draped gracefully around her, its intricate patterns shimmering softly in the dim light. The room was filled with the gentle scent of jasmine from a vase on her desk, and the warm glow of a single lamp cast a serene ambiance, creating a cozy haven amidst the stillness of the night.
As she hummed a soft melody, the sound floated through the air, blending harmoniously with the occasional rustle of the leaves outside. With each note, her worries faded, replaced by a soothing sense of peace. She smiled, lost in the rhythm of the song, as she reached for a stack of novels piled beside her.
Noor carefully arranged the books on the shelves, her fingers tracing the spines adorned with titles that had taken her on countless adventures. Each book held a story, a piece of her imagination that she cherished. As she placed the last one in its rightful spot, she paused, leaning back to admire her handiwork.
Her room was more than just a space; it was a reflection of her dreams and aspirations, filled with stories waiting to be discovered. The quiet of the night enveloped her, and for that moment, everything felt perfect.
"Chaliye noor bibi in novels mai se kuch hatane ka wakht aa gaya hai. Waise saari he humare dil ke bohat Kareeb hai, Kal baba se baat kare kya ek new bookshelf ke liye"
Noor blabbered to herself placing her delicate hands on her curvy waist
(Let's go, Noor bibi; it's time to remove some of the novels. Although they are all very dear to my heart,Should I talk to father about getting a new bookshelf.)
She stood up dusting her clothes and walked towards the balcony.
Noor's room was a charming blend of nostalgia and elegance, with high ceilings adorned with intricate plasterwork and walls painted in soft pastel shades that whispered stories of the past. The wooden floor, polished to a warm sheen, creaked gently underfoot, adding to the room's character.
A vintage wooden bed, draped in embroidered linens and plush cushions, served as the room's centerpiece, inviting relaxation and daydreaming. An ornate wooden wardrobe stood against one wall, its doors slightly ajar, revealing a glimpse of her colorful salwar suits hanging neatly inside.
On the opposite wall, a large, faded tapestry hung, its intricate patterns echoing the rich history of the room. Shelves lined with books, their spines worn but beloved, filled the spaces between the windows, showcasing her love for literature.
The balcony, accessed through tall, arched doors framed by flowing curtains, opened up to a stunning view of the cityscape. Potted plants in vibrant hues adorned the balcony railing, their leaves dancing gently in the breeze. A small, wrought-iron table and chairs nestled in the corner, creating a perfect spot for her morning tea or late-night musings under the stars.
Soft light filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow that brought the entire room to life. It was a sanctuary of comfort and inspiration, a place where Noor could lose herself in her thoughts and dreams.
She felt the chilling night breeze on her skin with her eyes closed and her body relaxed
"Ya Allah!!" Noor startled As a reflex to the blow of loud horns in such a calm and quite environment
(Oh God!!)
She looked at the black car with sleek and sophisticated body appreciating the beauty Although the strong roar of the powerful engine and horn displeased her.
"Ye raat ke is wakht kon apni gadi ka showoff karne ke liye hamari haveli ke Bahar horn Baja raha hai"
(Who is honking their car horn outside our Haveli at this hour of the night just to show off?)
She soon saw a man stepping out and opening the backseat door for someone who wore a fitted black suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and confident stance. His dark hair was perfectly styled, and it appeared as if his piercing gaze scanned the surroundings. The subtle scent of his cologne lingered in the cool night air, exuding an air of sophistication and charisma.
The dim light from the haveli made it difficult for her to see his face clearly. He prepared himself for the encounter ahead. Despite the stillness of the night, there was an intensity in his expression-a mix of anticipation and determination.
He moved with a purposeful grace approaching the entrance of the haveli making noor run inside her room and towards her parents room. Her anklets making beautiful noice with every step she took
She finally reached there door and knocked hard on it panting heavily
Before she could think anything further she heard the sound of the doorbell , indicating that the stranger was at the door that Also at this time
"Abbu!!...Ammi!!" Panicked Noor continues to call out for her parents who almost immediately opened the door after listening to the fear filled voice of their daughter at this unusual hour
(Mom!!....Dad!!)
"Kya Hua Noor beta-" Before her father could complete ,Once again the doorbell rang, and Firoz Khan and Naziya Khan also got confused as to who it could be so late.
(What happened Noor-)
"Ammi humne kisi aadmi ko ek badi gaadi se nikalte hue dekha aur gaadi chali gayi unhe yahan chodkar wo bhi kuch luggage ke saath"
(Ammi, I saw a man getting out of a big car, and the car left after dropping him off, along with some luggage.)
"Aapko kitni baar mana Kara hai ki itni raat mai balcony mai na Jaya kariye "
Scolded Naziya khan while Firoz went to open the door for the stranger.
"Chaliye aap apne room mai jaiye aur chup chaap apni novels touch Kare bagair so Jaiye" Ordered Naziya.
(How many times have I told you not to go to the balcony this late at night)
(Go to your room and quietly sleep without touching your novels.)
"Ji ammi"
(Okay Mom)
Said Noor and left for her room
••••••••
Firoz khan opened the gate, and in front stood a tall and broad man who looked quite good.
"Assalamualikum"
(Greetings)
Said Zayd in his deep and powerful voice .
Firoz Khan tried to recognize the person standing in front of him, but he had never seen this man before.
"Waalikumassalam beta Maine aapko pehchana nahi , Aapki tareef"
(Waalikumassalam, son. I didn't recognize you. How would you introduce yourself?)
"Ji Mai Zayd shah khan , Hasad khan ka pota"
(Well I am Zayd shah khan, grandson of Mr.Hasad khan)
"Are Zayd beta Mashallah!!..kitne bade ho gaye ho, Aao beta andar aao" Said Firoz khan Shocked on seeing his nephew
(Oh Zayd, my son, Mashallah!! You've grown up so much. Come in, son, come inside.)
Zayd picked up his luggage and entered the house, following Firoz Khan into the living room, where he sat on the sofa at Firoz Khan's request.
"Naziya begum!!"
He called out for his wife as she entered the livingRoom glancing at Zayd and Not recognizing him
"Ye zayd hai Bade abbu ka pota, Dubai se aaye hain" Firoz khan introduced him to his wife who finally recognized him and the drastic change he acquired while growing up
(This is Zayd, the grandson of Hasad uncle. He has come from Dubai."
Zayd felt quite awkward sitting there because he hadn't met these people since he had come to his senses.He Greeted Her as she greeted him back and went to the kitchen and almost immediately returned with a glass of water for him. She offered him the glass of chilled water which he gladly accepted to gulp down the Anxiety."Shukriya"
Zayd said After gulping down the water
(Thanks)
"Beta aapko aane mai koi takleef toh nahi hui , Ammi ne bataya tha ki aapka koi event hai yaha Lucknow mai ,lekin ye nahi pata tha ki aap aaj he aane wale hai warna hum aapka istakbaal Zara ache se karte" Said Naziya begum sitting across Zayd beside her husband
(Son, I hope you didn't face any trouble in coming. Ammi mentioned that you have an event here in Lucknow, but we didn't know you were coming today; otherwise, we would have welcomed you properly.)
"Are aisa na kahe aapse Milkar khushi hui mujhe aur maafi chahta hu aapko itni raat ko takleef di, mujhe laga daadu ne aapko inform Kar diya hoga mere arrival ka" Zayd said apologetically.
"Are beta Hume koi takleef nahi hui"
Naziya begum said smiling at him and turned to her husband "Firoz aap zayd ko guestroom mai le jaiye...beta aap fresh ho jaiye jabtak mai aapke liye kuch khaane ke liye Bana deti hu" She was about to get up to go to the kitchen But Zayd interrupted her
(Oh, don't say that! I'm happy to meet you, and I apologize for bothering you at this late hour. I thought Grandpa had informed you about my arrival.)
(Oh son, we didn't face any trouble.)
(Firoz, please take Zayd to the guest room. Son, you freshen up while I prepare something for you to eat.)
"Please aap takalluf na kare Maine flight mai dinner Kar Liya tha" Naziya insisted but Zayd politely declined her.
(Please, don't go to any trouble. I had dinner on the flight.)
"Chalo beta mai aapko guestroom dikha deta hu , aaram karo lambe safar se thak Gaye hoge"
Said Firoz khan leading the way as Zayd followed him dragging his belongings with him and soon they reached the guestroom
(Come on, son, I'll show you the guest room. You must be tired from the long journey.)
•••••••••
As I entered the guestroom of the haveli, I was struck by its blend of traditional charm and comfort. The room was spacious, adorned with intricate wooden carvings and vibrant textiles. A large, four-poster bed dominated the space, draped with colorful curtains that added warmth. A wooden wardrobe stood against one wall, filled with neatly arranged blankets and pillows.
After showing me the guestroom Mr.firoz left, wishing me goodnight.
I sat on the edge of the neatly made bed, My mind racing as I reflected on the unexpected welcome I had received at 3 AM. I appreciate the warmth of Mr and Mrs.Khan but couldn't shake the feeling of awkwardness. "Did my sudden arrival really not cause them any trouble?" feeling a twinge of guilt for interrupting their night.
••••••••
"They are so kind, but I wish I had given them a heads-up. They must be tired," he mused, recalling the surprised expressions on their faces. He admired their hospitality, even in the face of his late arrival, but he also felt a little embarrassed for the inconvenience he had caused.
As he settled in, Zayd pondered How would he meet the others when the situation was so awkward after just meeting two people?
"Daadu acha phasaya hai aapne" Zayd Said standing up and removing his coat and tie and was about to remove his shirt But Heard someone knocking on the door.
(Grandpa, you've really trapped me!)
He walked to the door and twisted the knob opening the door to come face to face with Naziya khan with A tray having jug filled with water and a glass and another glass having something in it. She stepped in placing the tray on the small table placed near the wardrobe.
"Ye sab ki Zaroorat nahi thi aap please meri wajah se pareshaan na ho"
(There was no need for all this; please don't be troubled because of me.)
"Isme kya pareshaani beta. Ye garam garam Khajoor milk hai aap peekar so jaiye neend achi aayegi, Ammi aapse milne ke liye bohat excited thi kaafi khush hongi aapko dekh kar ,Kal sabse mil lijiyega" Said Naziya begum smiling at Zaid and left after wishing him goodnight.
(What's the trouble in this, son? This is warm dates milk; drink it, and you'll sleep well. Mom was very excited to meet you and will be so happy to see you. Make sure to meet everyone tomorrow.)
I've never expected such a warm welcome!
Thought Zayd as he closed the door and removed his shirt tossing it on the bed with his tie and coat and walked to the glass of milk and grabbed it and took a sip of it , The aroma of the dates milk was quite pleasant, and the taste was just as good. Drinking the warm milk truly made Zayd feel better. After finishing the milk Zayd entered the bathroom and freshened up , changing into comfortable black kurta and pajama he made wudu (ablution) and stood for tahajjud(it is a voluntary night prayer in Islam.)
After praying Tahajjud and Fajr, Zayd made dua for the health of himself and his loved ones, asking Allah to support him in every aspect of his life.
Finally, Zayd lay down on the bed, and feeling exhausted, he quickly fell asleep without thinking about anything else.
••••••••
Noor lay in her bed, the moonlight filtering through the sheer curtains and casting soft shadows on the walls. She turned onto her side, trying to find a comfortable position, but sleep eluded her. Her mind kept drifting back to the tall figure she had seen from the balcony just hours earlier.
Who was he? she pondered, her curiosity piqued. He looked quite scary though! She thought
"Hume kya karna, honge koi raasta poochne wale "
(I've nothing to do with who was he? Might just be someone asking for directions.)
Noor said to herself drifting in her dreamlands Almost immediately.
'Perhaps both of them will sleep peacefully for the last time in a while.'
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