IMPRINT OF LOYALTY-18+

An Unexpected Sight

It was quite late when Jehan returned home that night. The conversation with Salma Begum had left him disturbed.

One thought dominated his mind: he would not let this relationship fall apart, no matter what. It wasn't as if he harbored a stormy love or passion for his wife, but knowing since childhood that they were married gave her significance in his life. He did love her, but it was a love rooted in respect and honor.

He had made up his mind to speak to Qasim Sahib, asking him to approach her family on his behalf.

After the day's arguments, Jehan decided to leave for the city the following morning. Upon arriving home, he noticed Qasim Sahib pacing in the lawn, clearly waiting for him.

"Why are you still awake? It's quite late. You shouldn't stay up so long," Jehan said, concerned for his health.

"I need to talk to you about something important. I'll go to the city tomorrow and speak to them. But let me tell you now, I don't think they'll agree. Your mother has spread such rumors that it's unlikely they'll consider it. Even if they agree, your sister-in-law will never allow her daughter to go to a place where she'll face criticism and hurtful comments," Qasim Sahib said, trying to prepare Jehan for the expected outcome.

Jehan remained silent, though reluctantly.

"I'm leaving in the morning. I have some work to take care of," Jehan said.

Qasim Hashmi simply nodded, knowing that after today's bitter arguments, Jehan wouldn't stay any longer.

At times, he felt immense anger toward Salma Begum for her unnecessary obsession with status. She had deliberately spread the word among relatives that Jehan's marriage would be to her niece, Rania. Qasim Sahib knew those rumors had reached the other family, making this marriage even more difficult to secure.

While Jehan retreated to his room, Qasim Sahib was left deep in thought. He now began to believe that arranging Jehan's marriage in childhood might have been a mistake.

This relationship had been his doing. His friend had initially refused, but he had convinced him with arguments, promises, and reassurances. If the relationship broke now, it would mean breaking his promise. That failure would make him feel sinful, as he didn't want to bear the curse of the girl's parents.

Abruptly, he changed his decision. Instead of waiting until morning, he decided to address the matter right away. He went to the lounge, sat down, and with some hesitation, dialed a number on his phone.

The call rang but went unanswered. He tried two or three more times. On the fourth attempt, the call was answered.

"Assalamu Alaikum," said a girl's voice from the other side.

For a moment, he was silent.

"Who is this?" she asked, surprising him.

"Wa Alaikum Assalam," he replied hesitantly.

"Yes?" she asked again, her tone unfamiliar.

"Dear, where is your father?" he inquired.

"Uncle, he's praying. If you want, you can leave a message with me, and I'll let him know," she offered.

Before she could say more, he hung up.

His sorrow deepened.

There was a time when she would recognize his voice instantly and call him "Chachu." Today, she didn't recognize her own uncle. His grief grew heavier.

Coming to the village now felt like a mistake.

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