Whispers of the past

chapter 3

The sun had set, and the clock struck eight. Noor sat in her room in the Malik mansion, completely absorbed in her phone. Outside, Saira and Azan were quietly peeking into the room, watching her curiously. Ameena approached from behind, noticing her two children sneaking glances inside Noor's room. She whispered softly, "What are you both doing here?"

The sudden voice startled Azan, and a small yelp escaped his mouth. Saira quickly covered his mouth, signaling Ameena to stay quiet so Noor wouldn't hear them. But Noor did hear the noise, and she opened her room's door, amused by the sight of Saira, Azan, and Ameena all standing outside.

With a polite smile, Noor asked, "You guys here? Do you need something?"

Azan and Saira exchanged a quick, embarrassed smile before Azan replied, "Nothing, we were just passing by."

Saira nodded, backing up Azan's words, while Ameena gave them a knowing look. Just then, Zakir walked over and noticed the small gathering. "What's going on here? Noor, are they bothering you?"

Noor was about to answer when Saira jumped in. "Baba, why would we trouble Noor di?"

Noor chuckled. "No, uncle, they weren't bothering me. I heard Azan scream, so I just came out to check."

Zakir frowned, turning to Azan. "Azan, why did you scream? Were you pulling another prank? How many times have I told you not to trouble others with your pranks?"

Azan quickly defended himself. "Baba, I wasn't pranking anyone! We were just standing here when Mom came up behind us and scared us. That's why I screamed."

Ameena shot a look at Azan and Saira. "I scared you? You two were peeking into Noor's room. I just came over to see what you were doing."

Caught, Azan and Saira lowered their heads, both embarrassed. Zakir sighed. "Azan, is this what I taught you? And Saira, you too? It's rude to peek into someone's room."

The two looked down in guilt while Noor watched them with an amused smile. Saira finally spoke, "We weren't peeking, Baba. Noor di just returned after ten years, and we wanted to meet her. But... we didn't know what to say after what happened downstairs this morning."

A warm smile appeared on Noor's face, feeling relieved that someone besides Dadu didn't hold resentment toward her. "If you want to talk, you can come inside," she said gently. "We're not strangers, and you don't have to worry about what happened downstairs."

Azan and Saira brightened up and, along with Ameena and Zakir, entered Noor's room. Ameena looked at Noor with a soft expression. "How are you, Noor? You've grown into a beautiful woman, dear. You were just fifteen when I last saw you. It's been so long."

Noor returned the smile. "I'm fine, aunty. How have you all been?"

"We're good, Noor di," Saira replied with a grin. "You know, when I found out it was you, I was shocked! You look so beautiful... so different."

Azan added excitedly, "Yes, di! Even I was surprised!"

Zakir then took a serious tone. "Noor, we're truly sorry-not just for what happened this morning, but for everything that happened ten years ago. We couldn't do much then, but I always thought of Afreen bhabhi and you. I would often talk to Ameena about you two."

Ameena nodded in agreement. "Yes, Noor, we were always concerned for you. Thank God Baba saved you that night from the fire. When I heard about Afreen bhabhi... it was a shock. But now you're here, and we'll do whatever we can to help you find her."

Zakir nodded in support. "Yes, Noor. Don't worry. If Ruhaan has taken this responsibility, he'll do everything to help."

Noor looked at them, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you, uncle and aunty. I was so anxious when Dadu asked me to stay here. I thought you all might hate me for what happened ten years ago, but I'm relieved that you don't."