Khaani ka Khan - Tere Bin FF

Chapter 9 - Loyal Minstrels

Murtasim was lost in gazing at his wife's face, oblivious to the passage of time, until the abrupt sound of an alarm pierced the air—it was Meerab's phone, indicating that it was 3 in the morning. This particular alarm was set by Meerab to ensure she checked on Meesam at least once during the night. She had recently begun this routine, admitting it herself. Previously, Meesam had always slept right beside Meerab on the same bed. Transitioning to having Meesam sleep in a cot was an adjustment for both of them, especially for Meerab. Without delay, Murtasim swiftly silenced the phone as it rang, aware of the fatigue that had accumulated due to their passionate moments. He understood that his amorous advances had left her tired. He slipped out of bed with care, aiming not to disrupt Meerab's restful state, and collected his clothes before heading to the adjacent room to retrieve Meesam.

Khan Murtasim Khan stood by the door; his attire composed of a pristine black Salwar Kameez accented with a matching black shawl. A strong desire surged within him to step inside and cradle his daughter in his arms. However, his principles and dignified demeanor restrained him from entering a room where another lady was sleeping. Mai, wrapped in slumber, lay on a mattress on the floor beside the bed where Meesam rested.

Murtasim rapped on the door gently, his knuckles delivering two soft taps, followed by a slightly firmer one, hoping to rouse Mai from her sleep so he could reclaim his daughter. Yet, his attempts proved fruitless, leaving him pondering whether he should permit them both to continue sleeping and return in a couple of hours, certain that Meesam would awaken by then. However, the thought of leaving Meesam and retreating to his own room weighed heavily on his conscience. He vividly recalled the distress Meesam had shown in his embrace, her fear of his vulnerability and anger haunting him. Remorse settled upon Murtasim, urging him to pursue a different course of action.

With a resolve solidified, he knocked once more, this time employing a considerably greater force. To his gratification, Mai stirred from her slumber. Swiftly regaining her composure, she rose and greeted Khan with a respectful salaam, her head bowed in reverence. Acknowledging Mai's salaam with a subtle nod, Murtasim strode purposefully toward his daughter, his steps marked by their determined length. He tenderly scooped Meesam into his arms, planting a gentle kiss upon her cheek. Meesam, nestled in slumber, drew closer to her father, her pout a soft expression of contentment.

"Baba ki Jaan," Murtasim whispered softly, his voice carrying regret for his anger and the undue distress he had caused his cherished daughter. His words were an apology, an admission of his transgressions against his precious princess.

Turning his attention to Mai, he expressed his gratitude for her vigilant care of Meesam during their absence. A sincere smile graced Mai's countenance as she responded, assuring Khan that her actions were not mere obligations, but rather a manifestation of her deep affection for the Khan family. "Don't mention it," she chimed, her words infused with warmth, "It's not just duty, it's my love for all of you."

"Khan... Chhota muh Badi baat," Mai began, capturing Murtasim's attention with those enigmatic words. "Our loyalty to your family doesn't stem from the numerous generations that have passed," she continued, her words carrying a weight that drew Murtasim's gaze with heightened intrigue. His eyes narrowed as he absorbed her message, attentive to every syllable.

"It's because we believe in you," Mai elucidated, her tone steadfast and unwavering. Memories of bygone days seemed to dance in her eyes as she delved into the past. "I've known you since you were Meesam's age," she reminisced, her smile a testament to the fondness she held for those memories. "I witnessed you growing up, akin to a prince, your visits to the village limited to fleeting days during vacations." The nostalgia held a bittersweet charm as she painted a vivid picture of Murtasim's past.