𝐇𝐚𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐭 - 𝐄 - 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐚𝐫

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 : 𝟏𝟑 💫

Hashim and Haider glanced over their shoulders, they saw Riza approaching them with a concerned expression on her face. Hashim exhaled deeply, a mixture of relief and weariness flooding through him as he realized it was Riza who had overheard their conversation.

"Kya hua hai bhai, aap aise uth kar aa gaye? Meher kaafi tense ho gayi thi," Riza said, her voice tinged with worry

"Kuch nahi," Hashim responded, his tone clipped, though he tried to mask the unease in his voice. "I wasn't feeling good, so I came out to get some fresh air." He waved a dismissive hand "You both go inside. I'll join you later."

Riza's eyes softened as she exchanged a glance with Haider. It was clear to both siblings that something was troubling Hashim, something he wasn't willing to share. "Bhai, we know something is bothering you. Please, tell us," Riza urged gently

But before she could touch his arm, Haider nudged her slightly "It's no use, Riza," he murmured, his voice low, almost resigned.

Hashim's jaw tightened, and he looked away, staring into the distance as if the very act of looking at them was too much to bear. "Go inside, both of you," he ordered, his tone firm, leaving no room for argument. "I'll join you all in a while."

Riza hesitated for a moment, biting her lip, but Haider gently placed a hand on her shoulder, guiding her to leave.They both nodded and turned to walk back inside, casting one last concerned glance at their brother. Once they were out of sight, Hashim sighed deeply, his shoulders slumping. He reached into his pocket, pulling out a cigarette, taking a few puffs.As he leaned against a nearby pillar, lost in his thoughts.

Inside the Haveli, the atmosphere was much livelier. Everyone had gathered around the long dining table, ready to have dinner. Dadi's eyes immediately caught sight of Riza and Haider as they walked in.

"Where is Hashu?" Dadi inquired

"He's in the backyard, talking to his PA about some documents for tomorrow's meeting," Haider replied quickly, trying to sound casual as he took his seat and began serving himself, hoping to deflect any further questions.

"Don't worry, Dadi. Bhai told us he'll join us after some time."

Dadi nodded .The rest of the family began eating. Halfway through the meal, Safir's eyes landed on Hashim, who had just entered the living room.But instead of coming to the table, Hashim made his way to staircase, his footsteps quick and determined.

Safir's brow furrowed in confusion, and he called out, "Hashim, kahan jaa rahe ho? Aao, betho, dinner karo hamare saath."

Hashim halted mid-step, turning slightly to face his father. Though there were unresolved issues between him and his parents. Hashim always maintained a respectful facade in front of guests, acknowledging them as his parents.

"Baba, I have to mail some files for tomorrow's conference. It's kind of important, I'll eat after finishing that," Hashim explained, his voice steady.

"Thik hai, mai khana bhejvati hoon tumhare room mein," his mother interjected, her tone soft.
"Okay," Hashim replied, his voice softer now, though still distant, as he turned and continued up the stairs, not sparing a glance towards the dining table , or towards the girl who had been waiting patiently, hoping he would join them so they could eat together.

Back at the table, his mother, Hana, carefully prepared a plate for Hashim. As she was about to call a maid to deliver the food, a soft, hesitant voice interrupted her.

"Khala, mai le jaun agar aapko koi itraz na ho toh?" Meher asked, stepping forward. Her voice was quiet, almost tentative.

Hana looked up, her gaze softening when it landed on Meher. "Haan, haan, Mehu, le jao baccha," she said, smiling fondly at the little girl who was soon to become her daughter-in-law.