Meerasim Ki Dunya

Chapter 29: Cut Off

**A Few Days Ago**

Meerab sat on the edge of the hotel bed, holding her phone to her ear as she spoke to Saba. The room was softly lit, with the curtains drawn back to reveal a view of the bustling city of Islamabad. Murtasim was out for a meeting, leaving her with some time to herself.

"You guys are in Islamabad? For your honeymoon? Didn't things escalate pretty quickly?" Saba's voice came through the speaker, full of surprise.

Meerab couldn't help but smile at her friend's reaction. "It's not actually a honeymoon," she clarified. "Murtasim had to travel for work, so we came together in the guise of a honeymoon. He did mention we could visit the Northern areas if I wanted, but I'm still unsure."

Saba’s enthusiasm was palpable even through the phone. "Well, I still don't get why you're so hesitant with him, but please do not miss out on the chance to visit the Northern areas. This is the best time of the year because it's snow season. You'll be missing out if you let go of this chance."

Meerab laughed softly, feeling a bit of the weight on her shoulders lift with her friend's excitement. "Alright, alright," she agreed, a smile tugging at her lips.

Saba’s tone turned more serious, though still warm and supportive. "Also, come on, he's your husband. There's no reason you guys shouldn't turn this trip into an actual honeymoon. You've loved each other since you were teenagers. I know he hurt you, but he has apologized, and I know you're still upset because of how your parents betrayed you, but I feel like Murtasim is someone you can and should trust."

Meerab felt a wave of emotions wash over her as she listened to Saba. She knew her friend was right. Ever since Murtasim had been shot, the walls she had carefully constructed around her heart had started to crumble. His vulnerability, his care, and the love he had shown her despite everything had rekindled feelings she had tried to bury.

She nodded, even though Saba couldn't see her. "You're right. I've been thinking about it too. Ever since he got shot, my feelings for him have resurfaced. Maybe it is time to confess."

"Yes, go ahead, confess to him and then let me know how it goes," Saba encouraged, her voice bright with anticipation.

After ending the call, Meerab sat quietly for a few moments, reflecting on the conversation. Saba’s words echoed in her mind, mixing with her own thoughts and emotions. Could she really let go of the past and take that step forward with Murtasim? The idea of confessing her feelings was both terrifying and exhilarating.

She knew Murtasim had been patient, giving her the space she needed, but she also saw the longing in his eyes, the silent hope that she would finally accept him, not just as her husband but as the man she had once loved deeply.

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Morning light streamed through the windows of the cozy hut, bathing the wooden walls in a soft, golden glow. Outside, a thick blanket of snow had transformed the landscape into a winter wonderland, with every surface covered in pristine white. Inside, Meerab and Murtasim moved about, getting ready for their planned hike to a nearby scenic viewpoint.

They had woken up an hour earlier, and were busy unpacking their luggage soon after breakfast before turning their attention to the hike. But in the solitude of the night, the snow had fallen heavily, the gentle flurries quickly turning into a dense, swirling storm.

Meerab was zipping up her insulated jacket, her breath visible in the chilly air, while Murtasim was checking their backpacks, making sure they had everything they needed: water, snacks, a thermos of hot chai, and a first aid kit. The excitement of exploring the snow-covered trail together filled the air, a welcome adventure in the midst of their serene surroundings.