Jaan-e-Jaaha

3-Gullabi

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As the nikkah ceremony concluded, Shehnaz adjusted her dupatta and turned to Sidrath. They stood awkwardly, two people now bound by a decision neither had wanted.

"Well, I guess that's it, Sid," she said, managing a polite smile. "I'll be off to London soon, and you... you'll be here."

Sidrath gave a brief nod, keeping his tone casual. "Haan, tum apni padhai par dhyaan do (Yes, focus on your studies). I'll take care of things here."

There was a moment of silence before Shehnaz said, "Allah hafiz, Sid."

and left the roof top.

He replied simply, "Allah hafiz. Safe travels."

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Shehnaz adjusted her dress, the glittering lights of the hall reflecting off her poised figure. She had come a long way in two years-London had been her place to grow, to make a name for herself, and tonight she was here as a respected professional.

Her boss's voice interrupted her thoughts. "Shehnaz, there's someone important I'd like you to meet." He gestured across the room, and as Shehnaz looked, her heart skipped a beat.

Sidarath stood there, looking just as composed as ever, but by his side was a woman laughing, clinging onto his arm as if she belonged there.

Shehnaz quickly recovered, giving a polite nod to her boss. "Of course," she said, her voice steady. She walked over, hiding her surprise behind a calm expression.

When they reached Sidrath, her boss introduced them. "Sid, this is Shehnaz-one of our brightest minds. Shehnaz, meet Sidrath."

Sidarath's gaze met hers, a flicker of recognition in his eyes, but he said nothing. The woman at his side, still holding onto him, looked at Shehnaz with mild curiosity.

"Pleasure to meet you," Shehnaz said smoothly, her professional smile unwavering.

Sidarath replied, his tone neutral, "Likewise, Shehnaz."

Shehnaz kept her composure, exchanging a few polite words before excusing herself. But as she stepped away, her heart sank. She had kept her part of the arrangement, staying loyal, no matter how distant and formal their relationship had been. But here was Sidrath, seeming to move on as if she didn't exist.

She found a quiet corner and took a steadying breath, willing herself not to let her emotions show. Why am I feeling this way? she wondered. She had been fine, focusing on her own goals, building her life in London, convincing herself that their marriage was just a formality. Yet seeing him now, with someone else so openly, felt like a betrayal.

Unable to stand it any longer, she turned to her boss and forced a weak smile. "I'm so sorry, but I'm suddenly feeling a bit unwell. I think I need to step out for some fresh air."

Her boss looked at her with concern. "Of course, Shehnaz. Take care of yourself."

Without waiting for a response, she left the party, her face turned slightly away to hide her expression. As soon as she was outside, she took a deep breath, letting the cool evening air soothe her. She hailed a cab and headed home, trying to shake off the image of Sidrath with someone else.

Back in her apartment, Shehnaz ordered her favorite takeout to lift her spirits, though her appetite was barely there. She turned on The Fault in Our Stars, hoping the familiar comfort of the movie might distract her.

But she couldn't relax, and just as she was about to press pause, the doorbell rang. Shehnaz frowned, glancing at the clock. It was late; she wasn't expecting anyone.