Written Among The Stars.

Chapter 4 - Shock

"Aaban?" His mother called out as they were having their usual breakfast. "Betay [Son], do you remember what you said last time?"

"Ammi [Mom], Not again please. You know I am not fit for this stuff. I cannot do whatever you expect from me. I will ruin their life as well. What's the use then?"

"It's nothing like that. It's all in your head. I know you." His mother countered.

"But I don't want to. You know I am allergic to commitment. I haven't been a good son. How can you expect me to fulfill such a big responsibility?"

"The fact that you know, this is a big responsibility makes me believe it even more that you will do your very best. Come on, Aaban. You are 27 now."

"I am still young, Ammi. [Mother] It's not like I am getting old and wrinkly and that after a certain age, I will die alone."

"But I am getting old and wrinkly na. Rehman made me promise. It's a fardh [duty] on me. Once you get settled with your family, I can relax peacefully for the rest of my life."

"Not this blackmailing again. I want to focus on my career and you know it."

"So who's stopping you from focussing on your career. You are at your peak at this young age, MashaAllah. [by the grace of Allah] Marriage will bring more barakah [blessings] in your life and career. Trust me, Aaban. You will flourish like anything."

"I am allergic to that word. Don't use it."

"But it's a reality. You have to accept it some day. The sooner, the better. Atleast, I won't be stressed about you and your future anymore."

"Don't be stressed then. I will make sure my future is bright."

She sighed. "You don't realize Aaban. I won't stay here forever with you. This is a big responsibility on my shoulders and I want to see you happy with your own family in my life." A tear escaped her eyes.

He quickly wiped it for her and held her hand. "Do you have someone in mind?"

"Actually, I do." She smiled widely.

"Okay then. Do whatever you want but please don't blame me afterwards. It will be solely your decision not mine." He abruptly left his breakfast and went to his car.

His mother knew he had a bad temper so she wasn't worried about him much. She knew he'll eventually come round and all these tantrums were just temporary. She was so excited to talk to the girl's family that she couldn't wait anymore but she decided not to talk about it anymore until Aaban calmed down a little. She knew she had pressurized him into agreeing but sometimes you need to look out for your kids if they are harming themselves.

Aaban on the other hand was furious. His mood was so bad that it felt like he would destroy everything that came in his way. The people at the office were used to of his behaviour and they knew that it was better not to provoke him at that time.

"Call for a meeting right now. I need everyone in the conference room in exactly thirty minutes." Aaban made sure Ashar understood his words well.

"Right, sir."

Everyone immediately left the work they were doing and went to the conference room. They didn't want to get on his nerves today because they were aware of his temper.

Aaban arrived there at sharp 9.30 and settled down. Without waiting for anyone, the meeting had started. Almost five minutes would have passed when an out-of-breath Haneen walked through the door, murmuring a quick sorry and settled at one side, drinking water.