LET ME HATE YOU

Promise

"Asmaira," Amaan sighed.

"I can't do this, Amaan."

"You've faced far more difficult things than starting college mid-semester," he said, taking their son, Kabir, from her.

Amaan had returned home early to surprise Asmaira with the news of her admission to a new college—another sacrifice she had made because of him and Raina. Finding Asmaira playing with Kabir on the lawn, he handed her the document to sign.

"I still would have said no if it was my old college. I lost a year and would look foolish repeating a semester with juniors," she replied, the thought of people staring making her feel sick.

"I knew you'd say that. That's why I transferred you to a brand new college. You've already studied the subjects but couldn't take the exams. It will be incredibly easy. Just a few months, and then you'll be busy with your thesis in your final semester. You won't even have to attend classes," he explained.

What he was asking felt much harder than facing Mehwish. The thought of Mehwish made her blurt out, "I haven't seen Mehwish for many days."

He tensed but answered honestly, "Mom asked her to go back home."

"Why?"

"Nice try changing the subject. Tell me one good reason why you don't want to finish your studies?" He noticed she wasn't giving him brief answers or simply agreeing with him anymore. She was actively responding and talking to him without hesitation.

"Kabir. I can't neglect him for my studies," she shook her head.

"Don't use him as an excuse," he said flatly.

"Why are you doing this? Why go to all this trouble?" She couldn't understand Amaan's strong desire to restore joy to her life.

"Because that was your dream," the moment he said it, Asmaira winced.

Ignoring her disheartened expression, he continued, "Your father told me he regretted stopping you from taking your exams. If he hadn't, you would be an architect by now."

Memories of Raina's last phone call that day clouded her mind. Noticing her downward gaze, Amaan knew she was sinking back into guilt.

And I intend to make your every dream come true. He thought to himself.

"It's only one year, Asmaira. Kabir would want this, too. When he grows up and learns you gave up your studies for him, do you think he won't feel guilty?" he said instead.

That question brought the reaction he was looking for—Asmaira frowned in thought. She would never want her son to feel responsible for any part of her life. Her eyes fell on Kabir before she looked at Amaan and nodded uncertainly.

The night before she was due to join the new college, Asmaira couldn't shake a feeling of restlessness. It felt strange to restart the journey she had abandoned, especially at a new place. Although she had agreed, a part of her still wished for a miracle to happen so she wouldn't have to attend college.

Seeing her lost in thought, Amaan sighed and closed the file he was reviewing. Her pale face was a clear sign she was getting cold feet. Instead of confronting her, he pretended to prepare for sleep and slid under the covers. When he faced Asmaira, she suddenly said, "I can't do it."

Anticipating her worry, he replied, "It's okay. I won't force you."

"Really?" She blinked in surprise.

"Yes. Let me take you somewhere tomorrow morning," he said.

"Where?"

"You'll see. Now, sleep."