Islamabad Club was the most prestigious and distinguished club in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The facilities of the club were only available to those who belonged to the club as members and not everyone was given entrance. The history of this club went back to 1969, when different government services officers decided to provide recreational and sports facilities to the government servants, diplomats and many other citizens of the twin cities. The patrons of the club had at time decided that only the applicants, who were approved by the other members of the club, would be allowed the membership. The quality and services of the club were maintained, therefore, they established a nominal rate for the membership.
Years ago, Haashir’s father, Saleem Javed had worked as a Secretary in the Ministry of Education and so, he had subscribed to the Club’s illustrious facilities available. He, of course, who had been a fan of club as this was their normal hangout as children, had made sure the membership went to the family, therefore, he had subscribed as soon as he was of age. Tonight, he brought the kids and Aida to Club for he had missed it immensely. He had loved to sit beside the swimming pool and watch the bright blue water, hear the laughter of children in the summers as they got ready for their first swims and he loved the smell of the saline water that filled the air. Those memories made him yearn to come back here and revel in the young childhood days. Today, he was here and Aida was right beside her. He had always wanted that and somehow, fate or karma, had listened to him.
“Wow, Haashir bhai, I didn’t know that you were going to bring us here.” Maheen exclaimed from the back seat. He smiled at the enthusiasm in her voice.
“Did you like my surprise?” He asked her.
“Of course, I did. I shall take Rameen to the library and show them their collection of books.”
“Book?” Aida asked, smiling to herself for she knew her sister too well; Rameen and books repelled each other. Rameen hated anything that had to do with study, writing or reading and now, the prospect of her visiting the library was hilarious to Aida. She laughed.
“Maheen, if she really goes into the library with you, don’t forget to take a picture for me.” Aida said, hiding her grin.
“Sure, I will.” Maheen grinned.
Soon after, Haashir had parked his car and they were on their way to the family hall near the swimming pools. The scent of Jasmine and roses mingled with the night air and tickled their nostrils as they made their way downwards. Rameen and Maheen were busy chattering between themselves while Haashir’s younger brother, Assad, walked a distance from them.
When Aida had met Assad earlier today, he seemed to be quiet, private and a shy young boy to her. Six years younger than Haashir, he seemed scared of him whenever Haashir was around and Aida couldn’t understand why. Assad was skittish, maybe a little afraid and he had this weird habit of looking behind his back now and then. That seemed awkward to Aida but she didn’t mention it in front of him. She would ask Haashir when they were alone, she vowed. For now, she wanted to make him comfortable and enjoy his time with his siblings. Aida was walking beside Haashir when she slowed down, almost standing near Assad.
“Beautiful weather today, isn’t it?” she asked, looking at him closely in the night.
“Yes.” He said and turned to look behind himself. Aida noticed the action yet again.
“How was your flight?” She asked, trying to make small talk.
“Tiring. I hate to travel.” He said.
“I see, well I guess now you won’t have to travel much.” She said. He nodded. Aida guessed maybe he was one of those people who are recluse, who never go anywhere, meet anyone and live in their own world but if he was that, she was sure he needed help for a boy his age shouldn’t be closing up on people but enjoying his life.
