Journey of Souls

13. Return | واپسی

I woke up in the morning and found Ammi missing. I quickly hopped out of bed and put on my slippers before hurrying outside the room to see where she was. It was early and bright and everyone was still asleep maybe. I walked out of the house to find Ammi talking to Hamida Aunty in the lawn. 

I walked over, squinting my eyes to protect them from the sunlight and quickly stood beside Ammi. 

"Good Morning Alizeh, I hope you had good nights rest." Hamida Begum spoke softly but in a firm tone. 

"Ji, Shukriya" I smiled. Ammi and Hamida Begum had been discussing their personal sentiments in regards to the wedding. They had bonded over their new family ties. 

I glanced around the garden and found Ahmad Shah tending to his garden. I watched as he delicately snipped at the weeds and watered them. Ahmad Shah Saab's gentle nature reminded me of Baba Jaan. He was the one who had instilled the love and skill of gardening. It's what I kept myself busy with at home as a tribute to him.

I turned my attention back towards the ladies I was standing next to when I saw a man walk over through my narrowed vision. I wish I had my sunglasses.

Zafar Ahmad Shah was walking in our direction.

"Salaam Ammi, Salaam Aunty. Aunty, I wanted to let you know that the bus will be arriving soon for your departure back to Lahore. If you need anything please let us know. You should wake your family up and let them know and get ready as well. Breakfast preparations have started in the main house and you can join us there."

Looks like someone is ready for us to leave, I mumbled.

"Alizeh beta, did you say something?" Hamida Aunty asked.

"Oh no no, I was just mentioning that I should probably go pack my things."

I gave a look of annoyance to Zafar without him noticing before I grabbed my mom's arm and walked back to the guest house with her. 

Most of my things were packed expect for the outfit I had worn the night before. I grabbed a fresh simple outfit for the day along with my necessary skincare and makeup items and packed the rest up. I quickly got ready and helped Ammi with her things before I carried everything downstairs. 

The rest of the family was ready as well with only Badar and Qurat missing. 

We all waited a couple minutes before Nani Jaan suggested I should go knock on their door. Just as I was about to knock, Badar opened the door with a blushing Qurat Bhabhi behind him.

"Well well well, a very good morning to the newly weds" I teased.

"Good Morning my dear sister, is everyone ready?" 

"Yes and we have been waiting on you two, let's go breakfast is ready."

I helped them with their things as my Mamoo's loaded the bus with our luggage. The rest of us began walking to the main house for breakfast. We all took our places in the dining hall of the Shah house and found a delicious breakfast spread waiting for us. 

Everyone ate and softly chatted amongst themselves. Once we were satisfied, it was time for goodbyes. 

Hamida Aunty's eyes began welling up with tears as she bid her daughter goodbye and wished her for new journey. Ahmad Shah held onto his daughter in a warm and tight embrace as he did the same. It was emotional having to see Qurat Bhabhi leave this life behind. Zafar held onto his sister's hands as he told her to take care of herself and always keep in touch before placing a soft kiss on her forehead.

I hugged Hamida aunty and thanked her for her hospitality along with Ahmad Shah Uncle. The rest of the family also bid their goodbyes. 

As we began boarding the bus, Zafar walked over and chatted with Sufyaan Mamoo. Ammi was standing behind Mamoo. He said something to Ammi, before taking a quick look in my direction. Our eyes met but I looked away and got on the bus. I took my seat and looked out of the window watching the Shah family wave to us. The engine of the bus rumbled as we left the gates.

A sigh of relief. Back to Lahore we go.

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After a hiatus of 2 whole years, I'm back. I cannot express how much I wanted to get back into this story. I'm excited to have more time so that I can finish. I have so many visions for how I want the story to progress. Sorry for the incredibly long wait but I cannot wait to hear your thoughts. Thank you all for the support!

Happy Reading!

-A