His City ( اُس کے شہر )

Seven

Arya wrote frivolously as the professor lectured in his thick French accent. Their first exam was coming up and she was already beginning to get those post-exam jitters. The last five minutes of class passed by and the professor excused them.

Finishing up her last few notes, Arya packed up, tucking her drawing pad against her chest. September was coming to an end with light breezes, letting them all know that November would be bringing the cold.

Waiting for her ride to come, Arya sat on the stone steps, opening her pad. It was halfway full, each page filled with different dresses and suits which Arya wished she could make come to life. She opened to a fresh page, doodling soundlessly.

She couldn't remember when exactly her love for fashion designing had started. She would always watch her mom sewing bright and beautiful clothing together to create outfits for her. Arya had loved that. The way small pieces could create such a whole and beautiful piece. Ever since then her love had never ceased. She would create frocks for her dolls out of scrap cloths. She had bought her first mannequin at age 14. Her parents had given her a whole designing kit for her 16th birthday.

She was still sketching the bodice when a honk resounded. Arya looked up. The driver was here to pick her up. She tossed her bag over her shoulder she got up silently.

Paris was a beautiful city. The sidewalks were lined with trees whose leaves were already turning gold and orange. The sidewalks were filled with tourists and Parisians alike. Over in the distance, if she squinted really hard, she could see the shape of the Arc de Triomphe. It was sad really, she was in Paris yet she hadn't even seen the main attractions.

They reached the Shah house in no time and inside she was greeted by Mrs Shah who was enveloped in a black shawl.

"Assalamualaikum, Aunty," Arya greeted.

"Walaikumsalam, beta. How was your day?"

"It was good," Arya replied, taking seat next to her. She had something to ask Mrs. Shah.

"Aunty...I was wondering..." Arya played with the ends of her teal hijab. "If I could get my license and get a car..." She trailed off.

"Is the driver not good enough?" Mrs. Shah frowned.

"No, no," Arya didn't want her take it the wrong way. "I just want to drive myself if you don't mind."

"Of course beta. We'll go to the police department and submit an application for an exchange of your American license. You can take any car in our garage-"

"No, Aunty, please," Arya cut her off. "Let me buy my own car. You've already done some much, giving me a place to stay. At least let me do this."

Mrs. Shah looked uncertain but she finally gave in. "Alright, if that's what you want."

"Thank you," Arya squeezed her hand. Mrs. Shah smiled.

"So tell me, how do you like Paris?"

"It's Paris," The younger girl laughed. "Of course I love it."

"That's good, that's good. And what about my boys? They're not giving you a hard time are they?"

That question caught Arya off guard; she wasn't expecting it. And she didn't know how to answer it.

"Er.Rafe is really sweet. He's practically like the brother I never had." She chewed on her lip.

"And Asad?" Arya didn't know why the woman was so curious about her answer. Mrs. Shah actually leaned forward

"He's um, nice." Arya lied. She couldn't really say that her son was the spawn of the devil.

Mrs. Shah actually looked relieved. "Oh that's good." She leaned back. "He's a good boy at heart. I'm glad you like him. I'm sure he's fond of you,too."

Arya blinked. Whoa. She hadn't really said that. This was getting uncomfortable. "I should go pray," She stood up hastily.

"T'll see you at dinner, Aunty."

"Alright, beta. Be good." Mrs. Shah waved her away and Arya couldn't get away fast enough.

If she hadn't know any better, it seemed like Mrs. Shah was trying to hook Asad and her up...

Arya shuddered at that thought.

There was no way she would let that ever happen.

***

A short chapter! Hope you all are liking the story.

Much love <3