Tere Bin - A Parallel Universe

Chapter Eleven

Koi itna pyara kaise hosakta hai

Phir sare ka sara kaise hosakta hai

Jab tere hote hue chain nahi parta

Phir tere baghair guzara kaise hosakta hai

(Unknown)

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Their separation had been a result of misunderstandings and miscommunications that had left them with wounded hearts and shattered trust. But everything had changed last week after they had returned from the wedding. It was a turning point.

Now they often revisited shared memories, laughed at inside jokes, and gently teased each other, just like they used to. The bickering and banter were back, creating a comfortable and familiar dynamic that they had sorely missed during their time apart.

However, beneath the surface, something had profoundly shifted. The wounds of the past had healed, leaving behind scars that told a story of growth and resilience. Love had transformed into something deeper, more mature, and resilient. They were no longer the naive duo they once were; instead, they had evolved individually and, in turn, as a couple.

What stood out the most was the newfound communication between them. They spoke openly about their fears, insecurities, and the mistakes they had made. There was a vulnerability in their words that hadn't existed before, creating a bridge of understanding and empathy. Trust, once shattered, had been painstakingly rebuilt through honesty and acceptance.

Meerab was sitting in her bedroom in her Karachi house, a cozy haven that held the memories of countless visits and the familiarity of home. The soft glow of the lights cast a warm ambiance around the room. The rhythmic tapping of raindrops on the windowpane created a soothing melody, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.

It was the end of a week that had felt both long and fleeting. Murtasim had accompanied her to Karachi as she tackled her exams. However, his routine had become a juggling act between office work in both Karachi and Hyderabad. The constant travel had taken its toll on him but he had decided to not leave her alone for a whole damn week. They had decided to stay at a hotel for a whole week to save Meerab time to travel between the two cities but as soon as Anila had heard those words from her mouth, she had strictly admonished their idea and asked her to stay at home.

She thought aloud that Meerab had still not forgiven her foster parents but Meerab had tried assuring her that she was just not comfortable living in their house where her parents were not present. However, Anila had talked with Murtasim and she was now sitting in the comfort of her own room.

Meerab thought of the time when she insisted that she could go with the driver and stay at her house alone as Murtasim would not have to worry about her being all by herself in a hotel.  He, however, had vehemently opposed the idea. The horror that crossed his face at the mere thought of being separated from his wife for a week was comical. His expressions had changed from a soft smile to worry lines etching across his forhead and eyes narrowing in an instant. He thought that Meerab had lost her senses. As she observed his reaction, a secret smile played on her lips as she reveled in her ability to tease him.

As the rain continued its gentle cadence outside, she focused on her notes. Tomorrow will mark the end of her exams, and anticipation mingled with the sense of relief that soon she would head home with Murtasim. The week had been a whirlwind of studies, shared glances, and stolen moments amidst the chaos of exams and work responsibilities.

In the quiet of her Karachi house, she reflected on the unique rhythm of their relationship. Murtasim's dedication to her well-being was evident in his reluctance to let her stay alone. It was a protective instinct that touched her heart, and in those unspoken moments, their love found expression.