Ishq-e-Junoon

27. Gulzar

-Sitaaron ki mehfil mein,
Tum hi mera noorani chaand ho

☾

Izzah's heart raced as she stood in front of the mirror, taking in her reflection. The coffee brown velvet saree she had chosen clung to her figure in a modest drape, its rich texture gleaming under the soft lights. A black shawl with delicate brown accents rested on her shoulders, adding an air of elegance to her look. Her makeup was simple yet refined, the kohl lining her eyes giving them a mysterious depth.

This wedding was her first public appearance as Shahmeer Khan's wife. The thought both excited and terrified her. Would she live up to the expectations? She took a deep breath, trying to calm the nervous flutter in her chest, and finally, with one last look in the mirror, she made her way downstairs.

As she entered the living room, her steps faltered when she spotted Shahmeer. He stood tall, dressed in a black shalwar kameez with a matching shawl draped over his shoulders. The sight of him, regal and dashing, took her breath away. He looked nothing short of a prince.

Shahmeer turned just then, and their eyes met. His gaze swept over her, taking in every detail. Izzah, feeling a little self-conscious under his intense scrutiny, shifted nervously.

"Kaisi lag rahi hoon?" she asked, her voice soft.

[How do I look?]

Shahmeer's eyes darkened with emotion, and a dreamy smile tugged at his lips. "Bilkul meri," he replied, his voice low and filled with meaning.

[Absolutely mine.]

Izzah's cheeks flushed a deep red at his words, and she lowered her gaze, unable to hide her shy smile. Shahmeer stepped forward, gently taking her hand in his. His touch was warm and reassuring as he led her out of the house. He carefully helped her into the car, making sure her saree was properly tucked, his attention to her every need making her heart flutter.

As they drove off, a comfortable silence settled between them. Izzah stole glances at him, her heart skipping a beat each time their eyes briefly met. Shahmeer seemed equally affected, his gaze occasionally drifting toward her. He reached out to turn up the volume of the song playing softly in the background, the melodious lyrics filling the air.

The song playing was soothing, its words lingering in the intimate space between them.

Tu itni khoobsurat hain,
Fida deedar pe tere
Muqammal ishq ho mera,
Zara sa pyaar toh de de...

Falak qadmo pe aa jhuke
Haseen lamhaat woh de de
Tere sang bheeg jaaun main
Kabhi barsaat woh de de
Tere bina jeena pade
Woh pal mujhe naa de
Tu itni khoobsurat hain
Fida deedaar pe tere

The soft music created an unspoken connection. Shahmeer's lips curved into a tender smile as he listened to the words, his eyes flickering over to Izzah. She could feel his gaze on her, and it sent a wave of warmth through her. Her cheeks burned, but she couldn't stop herself from blushing.

As the melody of the song faded, the car slowed, and they approached Fazal Baksh's home. The simplicity of the red brick house, adorned with lights, held a quiet elegance. People moved about with ease, but the moment Shahmeer's black Land Cruiser rolled in, the energy shifted. All eyes turned towards them, whispers filling the air.

Shahmeer stepped out, commanding the attention of everyone around him. His mere presence radiated power and grace. He walked to Izzah's side, opening the door and helping her out with the same careful attention he had shown earlier.