Traces of love

Chapter 9

Ayra and Sarim found themselves sitting in their respective homes, their minds consumed by thoughts of each other. The realization of their deepening feelings had brought them immense joy, but now they faced the task of revealing their newfound love to their parents.

Ayra sat nervously in the living room, awaiting the perfect moment to approach her parents. She glanced at the clock, her heart pounding with anticipation. Finally, as her mother entered the room, Ayra took a deep breath and mustered the courage to speak.

"Mama, aik baat karni thi aapsay" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety.

Her mother turned to face her, a curious expression on her face. "Of course, Ayra. What's on your mind?"

With a shy smile, Ayra hesitated for a moment before gathering her thoughts. "Well, I've been spending a lot of time with Sarim lately, and we've become really close... more than just friends. We've realized that we have feelings for each other, and we wanted to share this with you."

Ayra's relationship with her mom was very friendly so she didn't feel any hesitation to talk to her about that.

Her mother's eyes widened with surprise, but a warm smile quickly spread across her face. "Oh, Ayra, that's wonderful news! I've always seen how special your bond with Sarim is, and I couldn't be happier for both of you. Love is a beautiful thing and I have no doubt that you and Sarim will make each other very happy."

Relief washed over Ayra as her mother's supportive words sank in. She felt a surge of gratitude for having such understanding parents. Ayra hugged her mother tightly, feeling a sense of freedom and acceptance that gave her the strength to face the world.

"Mama, ab aap baba or Bhai say bhi baat karain. Wo maan jain gay na?" She asked nervously.
" Yes, I'll talk to them when they come back" she replied.

Meanwhile, Sarim found himself pacing back and forth in his room, rehearsing the words he would say to his parents. He knew they loved Ayra like a daughter and hoped they would understand the depth of his feelings.

As he was hella confused, so he decided to tell Ayesha and Maryam first because he knew these girls are crazy for Ayra and they'll definitely support him. He went to their room and knocked on the door and after their response he entered.
He told them that he has a news. When Sarim finally shared his feelings for Ayra, their eyes widened with delight.

Maryam squealed with joy " Bhai mujhay pehlay he pata tha k you like her". Ayesha also hugged her brother in excitement. He then asked his sisters to help him talk to mom and dad.

Taking a deep breath, he entered the living room where his parents were engaged in a conversation. Sarim cleared his throat, capturing their attention. Nervously, he began, "Mom, Dad, I need to talk to you about something important."
His parents turned toward him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. "What is it, Sarim?" his father asked, his voice filled with gentle concern.

Sarim mustered the courage to speak his heart but when he didn't speak, Maryam decided to tell their parents. "Bhai, aik to aap sharmatay boht hain, me he bta deti hun". Sarim gave her a deadly glare to shut her mouth but she did it anyway.
"Actually baba, Sarim bhai loves Ayra" She said and stood beside her dad so that sarim can't say anything to her.

His parents exchanged a glance, a moment of silence hanging in the air. Then, a smile formed on his mother's face, and she walked over to embrace Sarim. "Sarim, we've always seen how special your connection with Ayra is. Your happiness means the world to us, and if Ayra makes you happy, then we support your love wholeheartedly."

A wave of relief washed over Sarim as he felt the weight of his parents' approval lift from his shoulders. He knew he was fortunate to have parents who understood and embraced his feelings.

"Acha, to phir kis din jain gay unkay ghar rishta lay k" Sarim asked hesitantly.
"Karti Hun baat Ayra ke mama say, phir kartay hain plan" his mother replied.

On the other side, Ayra's mom talked to her dad and brother. They sat across from each other, a mix of emotions evident on their faces. Her father sighed, his brow furrowed with worry. "Ayra is still so young, and marriage is a lifelong commitment. Are they truly ready for such a step?" Ahil was happy for his sister as he knew Sarim very well and he was aware that he will keep her happy but he was also concerned that marriage is a big step. They have dreams to pursue, careers to build. Will they be able to balance their personal and professional lives?"

"I think we should talk to Ayra, and do whatever she says" her mother said. She called Ayra. Now Ayra was sitting with her dad and he told her his concerns. "Baba, I know you are worried but I really want to do this". She just said that and went to her room. Her mother then called Sarim's mom and they decided to meet. Dinner was held at Ayra's house the next day.

The next day, Ayesha and Maryam were so excited while Sarim was nervous. He tried to call Ayra but she wasn't talking to him just to tease him. They went to the Jaffry house at night. They had dinner and Sarim was stealing glances of Ayra. She was looking so pretty in her white dress. Later, the topic of their wedding finally came and both the parents shared their concerns and worries.

Sarim understood their concerns and appreciated their love and support. He assured them, "I understand your worries, but Ayra and I have thought this through. We believe in our love and our ability to face any challenges that come our way. Please trust that we're making a decision with open hearts and clear minds."

When he said that, Ayra's father knew that this boy is gonna love his daughter and treat her like a queen. "To phir hum rishta pakka samjhain" Sarim's mother said and all of them started laughing. Elders were now sitting together in the lounge to decide the date, Ahil and Sarim were also sitting with them while the girls were in the lawn. Sarim, when got a chance he came out in the lawn and signaled his sisters to go from there.

Sarim came towards Ayra and held her hands. She was being shy and looking down. She was looking so beautiful that he wanted to hug her.
" Why are you not looking at me?" He asked to tease her. She looked up and was about to answer when Sarim kissed her cheek which shocked her and she looked at him wide eyed.

"Aisay Kya dekh rai ho, shadi honay wali ha ab to kar sakta Hun" he said. " Honay wali ha hui to nhi na or ab jao tum" she replied and went inside.

So, what do you think about this chapter. This is the longest chapter and I really want you guys to vote and tell me in the comments what you liked the most about it❤️ Next chapter will be the last one and it will come tomorrow.