Azmaish-e-Ishq

Ch. 3: Fall Equinox Formal

Heer's P.O.V.

My mouth fell open slightly.

I thought he was going to ask Haniya.

The poor girl's face fell slowly.

"I, uh," the shyness and vulnerability were evident in Salaar's demeanor and hesitant voice. He extended the bouquet towards me, "I've seen a lot of guys do elaborate proposals for their dates on campus the past week, but, uh, as friends, I felt I could get you this. I thought you would like it."

There. 'As friends.' He said it himself. Maybe now Haniya wouldn't feel bad because he clarified it himself that it wasn't anything romantic.

With a cautious smile, I took the flowers slowly, "Thanks, Salaar."

The hurt deepened in Haniya's eyes nonetheless.

Salaar watched me, waiting for an answer.

"I'd, uh, love to go with you. Thank you once again for these," I lifted the bouquet, "They're beautiful."

How could I turn him down? He's my best friend. He brought me these flowers too. He needs me to go with him and it was for his career.

But in order to prevent his feelings from getting hurt, I hurt Haniya's. I would have to make her realize that everything's just platonic between Salaar and I.

"Thanks, Heer," a smile spread on his lips.

Haniya turned around and stormed into the kitchen.

I sighed silently.

"Is she okay?"

"She's probably upset that you asked me instead of her," I responded softly.

Guilt settled in his eyes, "What should I do? Should I go and apolo-"

He has a good heart. He didn't realize she would be gutted.

"No, it's your choice on who you want to take. You weren't in any obligation to take her. It's just-"

"There's no one I would rather go with except you."

I looked at his eyes.

"I-I'm, uh, most comfortable with you and you," he cleared his throat, "were saying there wasn't a formal when you were still there, so I thought I could ask you. We'd have fun."

"Thanks," I gave him a small smile, still feeling weary about Haniya.

"Thank you," he chuckled softly.

"You don't have class today, so what are you doing for the rest of the day?"

"I need to run some errands for my dad."

"Would you like a drink?"

"Sure. A vanilla-"

"-Cream cold brew."

He gave me a pleased nod.

I got to work. After I handed him his beverage, he left and I finally went to the kitchen.

"Haniya?"

She was facing the other way with her arms folded.

I placed my hand on her shoulder as I called gently, "Hani?"

I gasped silently when I turned her around. There were tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Ha-"

"You know I like him, yet you still agreed to go to a formal with him!" she accused.

"Only as friends! He said it himself!"

"He was just saying that because he's too shy! He likes you, Heer!"