Tere Bin - A Parallel Universe

Chapter Twenty Two

Murtasim's eyes fluttered open with the warmth enveloping him like a soft cocoon. As he slowly blinked, the room revealed itself bathed in a gentle mix of dawn light and lingering darkness. His surroundings felt serene, and a sense of comfort settled over him.

Closing his eyes again, he savored the softness surrounding him. He felt a desire to nestle further into the warmth, letting the tranquility of the moment seep into his consciousness. Yet, as realization dawned upon him, he hesitated to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.

Opening his eyes once more, he found his head placed on Meerab's chest. Even in her sleep, her right hand was placed on his shoulder and her fingers were holding onto the fabric of his shirt as if she did not want to let him go.

A wave of peace and love enveloped him as he recognized the serenity she had unknowingly shared. He had slept on her, and she had borne his weight without complaint.

Slowly raising his head, Murtasim's gaze fell upon Meerab's face, which was tilted towards his body. Her serene expression in sleep held an ethereal beauty that captivated him. Despite the mix of dawn and darkness, her features were illuminated in a soft glow, accentuating her captivating charm.

His heart fluttered with adoration as he observed his sleeping wife. Even in her slumber, she exuded an aura that could easily enchant anyone fortunate enough to witness it.

A small, involuntary pout formed on her lips, adding a touch of innocence to her beauty, making Murtasim smile affectionately. 

Overwhelmed by love, he carefully moved aside, allowing Meerab to continue her peaceful sleep. Placing his head on the pillow beside hers, he gently took her left hand in his, placing it on her stomach with utmost tenderness.

The connection between them felt palpable, and in that quiet moment, Murtasim couldn't help but reflect on the depth of his feelings for his beautiful begum. 

As he lay beside her, he wondered how much more he could fall in love with the extraordinary woman who had become an integral part of his life.

No, not an integral part of his life, he thought to himself.

She was his whole life.

There was no Murtasim Khan without Meerab.

Murtasim continued to gaze at Meerab for a few more moments, reveling in the peace and love that surrounded them, his fingers playing with her hair strands every now and then.

After quiet some time, his eyes eventually shifted towards the wall clock, and he noted that it was already 5:00 in the morning. Reality set in, and he knew he needed to get up.

Last night, he had agreed to the panchayat meeting, and there were responsibilities to fulfill so he needed to head to the gaon. He had made a commitment, and there was an urge to maintain the order in the village. Despite his desire to stay close to Meerab, he understood the importance of addressing the issues at hand.

With utmost care, he rose from the bed. Unable to stop himself, he gently grazed her cheeks with his lips, mindful not to disturb her peaceful sleep. Slipping out of the room,  he silently made his way towards the dressing room to change.

He walked out and closed the door behind him as he headed towards the gym in the Haveli, contemplating the day ahead. It was then that he noticed Anwar Khan making his way back towards his room after his morning walk.

"Salam chacha sahab," Murtasim greeted him.

"Walaikumasalam," Anwar Khan responded, nodding in acknowledgment.