Jaan-e-Azlan❤

24

Speaking to his parents proved to be a challenging for Azlan, though he couldn't quite fathom why a knot of nerves had wound itself tightly in his gut. He was certain his family would rejoice at their decision, yet an inexplicable fear held him in its grip. All he knew with unwavering clarity was that he couldn't bear the thought of losing her.

His mother's joy at her son's words surpassed any other happiness in her world. It was as if her deepest desire had materialized before her very eyes. As they broached the topic with Rehman, his father, he readily acquiesced. Pride swelled within him at the success of his orchestrated plan. It had been his suggestion for the proposal, driven by a desire for Azlan and Mantasha to explore the depths of their emotions.

The next day, Azlan informed Mantasha that he would personally drop her off at university and pick her up. Unbeknownst to her, he had already spoken to everyone about it. When she descended for breakfast accompanied by Azlan, her tayi ammi enveloped her in a tight embrace, momentarily catching her off guard. Mantasha initially looked surprised but then returned the hug.

"Good morning to you too! Are hugs the new breakfast trend now?" Mantasha joked, laughing. The room filled with laughter and excitement, but they quieted down as Azlan motioned for them to do so. He wanted to be the one to break the news. Eager to share, yet nervous about her reaction, Azlan planned to take her out and explain everything.

"So, any chance of food today?" Mantasha asked with a grin, prompting her tayi ammi to chuckle.

"Of course, meri bachi! Today, we've prepared a special breakfast, just for you, with all your favorites," her aunt replied affectionately. Mantasha's face lit up with delight; she hugged her aunt again and planted a grateful kiss on her cheek. "Thank you, thank you, thank you! You're the best."

As the family gathered around the breakfast table, Mantasha and Shahmeer found themselves sitting next to each other, with Azlan on other side of her as always.

Mantasha picked up a piece of toast and inspected it critically. "Shahmeer, do you even know how to make toast properly? This looks more like a failed science experiment."

Shahmeer shot back with a smirk, "Oh please, Mani. You're just jealous because my toast is perfectly balanced, unlike your chaotic breakfast choices."

Her taya abu chuckled, enjoying the banter. "Now, now, children. Let's keep it friendly. Breakfast is not a battlefield!"

Mantasha mockingly sighed, "I know, But meer makes it too easy. I mean, who puts ketchup on scrambled eggs?"

Shahmeer raised an eyebrow, pretending to be offended. "Hey, it's a gourmet choice! You wouldn't understand."

Mantasha rolled her eyes playfully. "Sure, meer. Next, you'll be telling us you invented a new cuisine: scrambled ketchup eggs."

Ghazan, enjoying the scene, interjected with a grin, winked, "Well, Mani, maybe Shahmeer is onto something. You know what they say, 'Variety is the spice of life!'"

Mantasha laughed, turning to Azlan who had been quietly observing. "What do you think, Azi? Scrambled ketchup eggs-yes or no?"

Azlan couldn't help but smile at Mantasha's infectious energy. "I think I'll stick to my plain scrambled eggs, thank you very much."

Mantasha shook her head in disappointment, facepalming herself, "Aapka kuch nai ho skta."

The whole family erupted into laughter as Mantasha and Shahmeer continued their argument over breakfast, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere that no one could resist being a part of.

Later, Azlan dropped her off at the university and made his way to his office. All day, he couldn't wipe the smile off his face, which was very surprising for his employees. They had never seen him in such a good mood before. They knew their boss only behaved like this when Mantasha was around, but even in her absence, he was so happy. Everyone was curious about what had happened, but no one dared to ask him, as they were all scared of his mood swings.