Jaan-e-Azlan❤

23

Azlan stood in the spacious living room, his hands clenched at his sides. "Dada Abu, I don't understand why you're pushing this proposal on me," he said, frustration evident in his voice. "I barely know these people."

His grandfather, looked up from his reading, his expression stern but calm. "Azlan, it's time for you to settle down. You're at the right age. This family is reputable, and the girl is well-suited for you."

"But I need more time," Azlan pleaded. "I can't just decide my future like this."

Rehman sighed, his gaze softening slightly. "Azlan, beta, I'm not forcing you, but I want you to seriously consider this. It's for your own good."

"Weren't you the one who wanted me to marry misha??" Azlan asked and he shrugged. "I did beta, but trust me its all for your own very good, jao aur is bary myn sochna zaroor," He said putting a stop the conversation.

Feeling defeated, Azlan exhaled sharply and retreated to his room, the weight of his grandfather's words heavy on his shoulders.

Later, Mantasha, knocked softly on his door before stepping inside, her eyes filled with concern. "Azi, are you alright?"

Azlan managed a small smile. Despite his inner turmoil, her presence always soothed him. "I'm fine, Misha. Just a bit overwhelmed."

Mantasha bit her lip, hesitating before speaking. "Would a drive help clear your mind? The weather is perfect. Only if you are up with it."

Azlan's smile widened, the tension easing slightly. "Alright. Just give me a minute."

As they drove along the winding roads, the sky a brilliant canvas of oranges and pinks, the cool breeze was a welcome relief. Mantasha's laughter filled the car as they shared stories and enjoyed the scenic views. But beneath the surface, Azlan's mind churned with unspoken thoughts.

They drove in comfortable silence for a while, the rhythmic hum of the car soothing Azlan's troubled mind.

Finally, Mantasha broke the silence. "You seemed upset earlier. Is everything okay?"

Azlan hesitated before answering, his grip tightening on the steering wheel. "Dada Abu wants me to consider this marriage proposal. He says it's time for me to settle down."

Mantasha turned to look at him, her expression unreadable. "And what do you think?"

Azlan gave her a brief look, staring deep into her eyes. "You know better than anyone. I will never do this to you at any cost," he said, his voice steady and sincere.

Mantasha's heart fluttered at his words, and she unknowingly relaxed. "So, you won't agree to this proposal?"

Azlan shook his head, his gaze returning to the road ahead. "No, Misha. I've already told Dada Abu that I need more time. I can't say yes to someone especially when my heart belongs to you."

Mantasha sighed, her thoughts a tangled mess. "Azi, I'm still trying to sort out my feelings. It's not fair to keep you waiting."

Azlan smiled softly, his voice steady. "I'm not asking for fairness, Misha. I'm asking for honesty. I love you, and I'm willing to wait as long as it takes. Whether it's months or years, I'll be here."

Mantasha looked out the window, the passing scenery blurring into a tapestry of colors. "I don't want to hold you back, Azi."

"You're not holding me back," Azlan replied gently. "You're giving me hope. And that's more than enough for now."

The car fell silent again, but this time, the silence was filled with unspoken understanding.

Her heart fluttered at his words, and unknowingly she relaxed, comforted by the assurance that he would never agree to the proposal. She knew now, more than ever, that he was still adamant about his love for her and his desire to marry her, willing to wait an eternity until she sorted out her feelings.