Journey of Souls

9. Glances | نظریں

Alizey's POV

We had reached Shah Mahal. I slowly rubbed the sleep from my eyes and turned to look at Badar sitting next to me. He was shaking his leg in anticipation. How cute. Slowly, everyone began gathering their things and stepping off the bus. I told Badar to go ahead without me so I could wait for Ammi and come along with her. I waited for Ammi and followed her out and off the bus.

I stepped down and was mesmerized by the complete beauty of the mansion. The decorations for the wedding had only enhanced the beauty it already had.

Soft music was playing in the background through the speakers located on various points of the property. Suddenly, I heard someone talking. It was Ahmad Shah, the owner of this beautiful house, the father of my bhabhi.

"Assalamu-Alikum Sufyaan Saab and Zoya Sahiba! Welcome to Multan."

He greeted Mamoo and Mumani before greeting my other mamoo, mumani, and Nani Jaan along with the kids. Ahmad Shah Saab turned towards Ammi and nodded his head while saying his salaam. Sufyaan Mamoo informed him that we were his sister and niece visiting from America.

Standing right behind Ahmad Shah saab was his wife, Hamida Shah begum. All the ladies of the house went forward and greeted her with an embrace. She was a very kind and sweet lady from the looks of it. Ammi greeted her and I followed suit.

"Assalamu-Alaikum Saba ji, it is so nice to meet you and your daughter. We would love to welcome you to Multan and our home." She turned to look at me and I smiled. "MashAllah your daughter is very beautiful and sweet. I am looking forward to the next few days of celebrations."

Ammi thanked her for the welcome and the kinds words. Everyone began walking towards the entrance of the house while the workers brought our luggage and things. We stepped inside.The grandeur of the mansion, which almost seemed like a palace, was breathtaking. A large chandelier hung right in the center with a double staircase encircling the foyer area. We walked forward and Qurat-ul-Ain was standing there.

She greeted Badar's parents first. She was glowing and a hint of deep-pink flush made its appearance on her cheeks. I was towards the end of the crowd. Everyone greeted her and made their way forward. Qurat-ul-Ain saw me and her eyes widened. She grabbed me and gave a tight hug.

"Welcome to Multan, Alizey! I'm so happy and excited to have you here. Please come!"

She grabbed my hand and led me towards the dining area where everyone was ready to take their seats for dinner.

Just as we were about to sit, Zafar Ahmad Shah, the man who rarely showed any emotion, walked in.

"Salaam everyone. Good to see you all again. Please have a seat for dinner."

He gave a small, convincing smile.

Dinner was extravagant. All sorts of dishes has been prepared for us. From nihari and karahi, to biryani and mixed vegetable pulao, the aroma in the air was intoxicating. I had never been more excited to eat. Everyone began passing around the dishes and chatting amongst themselves.

A while had passed into the feast and I suddenly heard my name.

"Alizey!"

I looked up immediately. It was Ahmad Shah saab.

"So Alizey, I've heard you have completed your Bachelor's degree in America."

"Yes Ahmad Uncle. I graduated recently."

"MashAllah. That's very good. If you don't mind me asking, what did you study?"

I could feel everyone's eyes on me as Ahmad Shah conducted his interview. My face was turning a bright pink as the heat in my body rose.