“Yes, I told her. She said, she is okay with this, but I have nothing for you today. I need to finish my homework first,” Zara said to Abrar with annoyance, when he asked if she had talked to Ayesha. Abrar raised his eyebrows, “Homework?” he was surprised too.
“Yes, it’s for a project. I need some time to sort out my ideas.”
He took the laptop from Zara, much to her annoyance. “Well, your brother is all ears. Why don’t you tell me what idea and project you’re working on? Then we can discuss my problem.”
Zara noticed that Abrar was unusually sweet, a tell-tale sign that he had made a mistake and wanted her to cover for him. But she was too stressed to pay it much attention. Most groups had finalized their ideas, and she was worried someone might present hers first. She had asked Ayesha and Abdul Hadi to brainstorm ideas via text and planned to meet them tomorrow, but she already had a strategy in mind and was nervous about convincing them to go along with it.
Taking her laptop back, Zara began typing furiously. “Look, dear brother, I’ve been procrastinating for too long. I've realized that keeping calm doesn’t work for me. I’m a ball of energy that shouldn’t be stopped. Suppressing my true potential was the worst decision. Like Newton's first law, I keep going if my will allows it, and I rest if it doesn’t. The driving force has always been my will. This law perfectly describes my situation. I’m sad that I did this to myself. I was trying to balance my life but didn’t realize it was asking me to struggle constantly and avoid my true gift. Inside, there’s a chaotic universe where ‘thoughtmen’ collide every second. I—”
“Thoughtmen? Did you say that?” Abrar interrupted, half amused, half bewildered.
“Ah, yes. Between waking and sleeping, I once saw a man, darker in color, wearing a white coat and pants. He nudged me and was startled. When I asked what he was doing, he said, ‘I am wandering.’ So, my subconscious mind named him ‘Thoughtman’.”
“Hahaha, I see how weird you can get when you’re overwhelmed,” Abrar was even more amused.
“You’ve always known that. Tell me it’s true.”
“Yes, but each new situation makes you differently weird from the last,” Abrar said with a grin.
“I don’t mind being weird.”
“Just like you don’t mind being ugly,” Abrar teased with his twinkling eyes.
“Now you’re in the game,” Zara retorted, pulling a face. “Okay, I promise I’ll tell you everything when I’m done, but it will take some time. Let me finish this first.”
Abrar sat for a while, watching her work. Realizing that Zara would be busy late into the night, he left, unable to tell her that he had received a text from Tehreem, his former girlfriend. He sighed, not knowing that "Old flames die hard."
“The meeting was supposed to be held in the cafeteria, but I don’t see Abdul Hadi here. Am I blind, or is something wrong with my eyes?” Zara complaining less and was being more sarcastic. It seemed that her level of sarcasm hit peaks where ever there was something about Abdul Hadi.
“Why don’t you call him?” Ayesha suggested.
“Why would I? I’m not calling that Mr. Rude”
Just then Ayesha noticed Abdul Hadi entering, “Alright, be quiet. There he is, coming now,”.
Abdul Hadi approached them and asked if they had ordered anything. Ayesha responded that they were waiting for him. He called the waiter and ordered three cups of tea. Ayesha quickly corrected him, “Two cups of tea and a mango shake.”
“Okay, two cups and a mango shake,” Abdul Hadi repeated.
He didn’t question the change but Zara chimed in, “Ayesha doesn’t drink tea.”
Abdul Hadi simply nodded, uninterested in the details, as he was focused on the task at hand.
Zara glanced at Ayesha, conveying her frustration through her eyes. “Look at him, acting so indifferent about something as simple as tea. I was surprised when I found out.”
Ayesha, using her eyes to respond, urged Zara to stay calm and not lose her temper. Zara signaled back, agreeing to keep her composure. This silent exchange happened so quickly that Abdul Hadi didn’t notice.
“So, what are we going to do?” Abdul Hadi asked.
“Share ideas. I asked you to bring the list. Show me what you’ve got,” Ayesha replied and ended with a question. It was at this moment that Abdul Hadi and Ayesha realized they were both at fault.
“What do you mean? You both don’t have anything?”
“I was so busy. When I got home, my mother had gone to a relative’s house, and I had to cook and clean and everything,” Ayesha explained.
“And you?” she was more concerned with what he has bought to the table; he was her obvious target.
“I tried, but I couldn’t get to the list. Sorry,” Abdul Hadi answered. He was uncomfortable but didn’t want to argue, even though he lied about trying. Zara’s sudden question had unnerved him, and he couldn’t understand why a girl could scare him over something so simple.
“They do things intentionally and then just say ‘sorry.’ I’m sorry that I am not a fool,” Zara muttered, cutting off Abdul Hadi, though she tried to keep it indirect.
Both Ayesha and Abdul Hadi were wary of her response, but to their surprise, Zara didn’t react as expected. Instead, she got hands to her bag and started to pull out stuff. “Alright, I have plenty of ideas. Since you both didn’t do your part, I’m not wasting my time. I’ll just implement my idea and use it as leverage against both of you for not taking the homework seriously.”
“That’s inequitable,” Ayesha said. “What idea?” Abdul Hadi asked, simultaneously.
“Totally fair game,” Zara responded, giving Ayesha a look that clearly conveyed, “You know it’s fair, so let’s move on.” She then pulled out her laptop and showed them a PowerPoint presentation she had prepared, for their meeting. Quite formal, huh? But Zara had this thing of turning small ideas into grand plans; it was her signature style. In forty minutes, she finished her presentation.
“I don’t know if this will work,” Ayesha commented.
“What do you think?” Zara asked closing her laptop and turning to Abdul Hadi.
“It’s up to you. Whatever you decide,” Abdul Hadi replied, he said it with such simplicity, or what Ayesha thought it.
“So, what do you think about teamwork? Don’t you think it’s important for everyone to contribute genuinely? I’m not going to work under these conditions,” Zara was different, she didn’t buy his simplicity, she was more into verbal communication and started packing her things. Ayesha looked at Abdul Hadi, hinting for him to speak. He met her gaze and then turned to Zara. “What exactly do you want me to do?”
“As if you’ll follow my instructions. I’ve seen how you work, and honestly, I’d rather part ways than wait for a major dispute to arise,” Zara made it very clear to let Abdul Hadi know that his silence will only end their team at this point.
“Tell me, and I’ll try,” Abdul Hadi offered.
“Just answer one question, and then I’ll decide,” Zara said.
Abdul Hadi realized he was making an effort he hadn’t for a long time, though he wasn’t sure what had sparked this change in him.
“What do you think about the idea?” Zara asked.
He wanted to say, “I can’t say,” but knew he had to provide a different answer. Instead, he said, “I’ll support the idea because we don’t have another one. In terms of practicality, it’s always a gamble when trying something new. It could either be a big success or a failure.”
“Aha, now you’re talking,” Zara said, satisfied. She sat back down. “So, it seems the final decision is up to a vote. Both of you need to agree, as I’m ready to take a leap of faith.”
“I’ll go along with it. Now that I think about it, it seems like a good idea,” Ayesha said.
“It is indeed a good idea. Targeting females in the business industry is smart since they are the universal buyers,” Zara added.
“Tell me the point. I’m not interested in anti-feminine comments,” Ayesha interjected.
“I’m only stating facts. Your product is likely to appeal to a female audience,”
“Okay, so you’re in too?” Ayesha asked Abdul Hadi.
“Yes, count me in. What’s the next strategy?” He looped in too.
“I don’t know; it’s all chaotic,”
“If you don’t know what to do, just act! Let’s embrace the chaos and let things fall into place,”
Ayesha advised, with Abdul Hadi nodding in appreciation of her positive approach.
“Alright then, if I can’t rely on you at home, let’s work together now,” Zara proposed the idea.
“I’ll inform my family that I’ll be late. Can you drop me?”
“Yes, I’ll ask Bhaiya (Brother) to come,” Zara replied. “What about you?” Turning towards Abdul Hadi.
“I’m not busy; I’ll stay until we finish the work,” Abdul Hadi couldn’t risk again the team dismissal.
“That’s the spirit of teamwork,” Zara really sounded happy.
Abdul Hadi smiled, and Ayesha felt relieved to see them agreeing. “Take out your notebooks and do a Google search. Find your favorite Urdu lines from poetry, and then we’ll filter out the top ten,” Zara instructed enthusiastically.
Abdul Hadi looked confused. Noticing this, Ayesha asked, “What’s the problem?”
“I don’t have a notebook,” he replied.
“Oh, you boys,” Zara said, exasperated.
Ayesha smiled and tore out some pages from her notebook, handing them to him. “Here you go.”
“And a pen?” Abdul Hadi asked.
“Take this; I have an extra one,” Zara said, giving him a pen. They all began searching on Google and writing down their notes. After two hours, they compiled a list of ten lines.
“Thank God, you have no idea how relieved I am that we’ve made our first step,” Zara said.
“It’s already late. Let’s call it off for toady. Abu has called me four times,” Ayesha added.
“I’ll drop you both if you’re comfortable,” Abdul Hadi offered that Zara politely refused “No, I’ll call my brother. He’ll be here in fifteen minutes,”.
This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
“Okay, suit yourself,”
Zara expected Abdul Hadi to leave, but he simply moved away, excused himself, and made a phone call. He stayed until Abrar arrived. After saying goodbye, Zara and Ayesha got into the car and headed home. After them Abdul Hadi too went to his car.
As they drove, Ayesha greeted Abrar and Zara noticed that they were silent so she too didn’t say anything until they dropped Ayesha. As soon as Abrar started the car again, “I didn’t know you could stay quiet for so long,” she remarked.
He smiled. “I didn’t know either.”
“Is something bothering you?”
Zara always sensed if something was wrong with her people, and never hesitated to ask them if they were okay.
“Who was that guy?” Abrar inquired, attempting to shift the topic.
Zara misinterpreted his curiosity as jealousy. “Oh, he’s nothing. Don’t worry about him.”
“No, I’m just curious. I’ve never seen you with anyone except Ayesha,” Abrar clarified.
“He’s a teammate, and his name is Abdul Hadi, well, when are we going to her home then, I think we should not take more time, what do you say?” Zara jumped to her favorite topic
“Abdul Hadi,” he repeated, as though seeking confirmation of the name. “Spill the beans—what’s the latest on your project?”
Her excitement bubbled over as she began to share with animated fervor. Abrar, however, kept sidestepping what Zara had asked, a fact Zara was too weary to fully grasp. All she could think about was getting home as quickly as possible to indulge in a steaming cup of tea. “My bed is practically begging me to come back,” that’s what she used to say, reflecting her deep yearning for the comfort of her room.
Back at Ayesha's home, “How did your day go?” Abdul Qadeer asked Ayesha habitually.
“Commendable and fruitful,”
Abdul Qadeer could see the colors of satisfaction on her face. “That’s wonderful to hear,” he said, visibly pleased.
“But we’re a bit stuck, unsure of the next steps,”
“Why not jot down your thoughts? Mind mapping can help prioritize your actions and bring clarity,” He was a wise man, he always talked logically.
“We’ll tackle it as a team tomorrow, but I’m also keen on some independent research. The challenge is, I’m feeling a bit lost and don’t know where to start. It’s a chaotic situation right now,” she confessed, her doubts still lingering.
“Amidst chaos lies a subtle order. Taking the first step is all you need,” Abdul Qadeer advised. He always helped Ayesha whenever she needed someone to listen to her, and gave insights to make her see life with a good eye.
Over the next week they had submitted their names and had multiple meetings and bought their ideas into a plan of action. They seemed excited, while everyone in the class was surprised over this unexpected group’s gatherings.
This is the magic of time you see, once strangers, starts knowing the meaning of glances and unspoken words that spoke volumes. Each moment spent together peels away the layer of their guarded hearts, they start to reveal their fears, dreams, and desires that nobody thinks to dare to voice before. Laughter becomes easier, silence more comfortable, and in the quite spaces between those deep conversations, with all the philosophies on life, grows something tender, almost unnoticed. Love? I am not sure, but yes, something that has warmth.
As the days passed, the three of them had just started to be more comfortable with each other. The time had fled during their meetings like wind and they were deeply into their project. Now, at this time, when the literary festival was seven days later, they had to act on their ideas
In Ayesha's car, exploring local bazaars to estimate the costs for their raw materials. Zara’s flair for haggling came to the forefront as she skillfully negotiated with vendors, seeking bulk discounts. She urged her companions to join her in the bargaining, but they seemed indifferent. Gradually, Abdul Hadi joined in.
“Do you find it easier to negotiate when it’s just the two of us?” Zara asked Ayesha, noticing that Abdul Hadi was busy with a vendor and couldn't hear them.
“Yes, it’s quite clear,” Ayesha replied.
“Summon your confidence; we’re a team. It shouldn’t faze you,”
“I’m trying, but my instincts seem to falter,” Ayesha admitted. It was still not the time for Ayesha to be frank with Abdul Hadi, as she was with Zara. Something was lingering with her subconscious, holding her back, though she couldn't quite grasp what it was.
The human subconscious knows more than we realize—it senses the future, shaping our instincts based on our present decisions. It interferes in ways we don’t always understand, guiding us even when we’re unaware of the reasons behind our actions. This was exactly what Ayesha was experiencing. Her subconscious had already glimpsed where being more open with Abdul Hadi might lead, and it instinctively held her back, trying to protect her from potential heartache. While Ayesha remained ignorant of the deeper reasons, her subconscious was quietly shielding her from decisions that could wound her in ways she couldn’t yet foresee. Well, that happens usually when there are matters of heart.
Just then, Abdul Hadi approached, announcing, “He agreed to a 20% discount.”
“How did you manage that?” Zara asked, surprised since she had given her all to the same vendor without success.
“I had a friendly chat with him,” Abdul Hadi explained before heading back to the car. “So, Zara,” Abdul Hadi said, clearly trying to annoy her, “I still don’t understand why you had to bargain so fiercely. It’s not like we’re buying a car.”
Zara laughed, sarcastically “Well, I was just being persistent. You should try it sometime, it can save money”
“I’d rather not make enemies with every vendor in the market.”
As they approached the vehicle, Zara and Abdul Hadi’s argument continued, their voices rising above the noise of the market. Ayesha, sensing the rising tension, intervened. “Guys, can we please just focus on getting everything into the car? We’ve got a lot to do.”
"Okay." Abdul Hadi just then stopped talking, giving up his turn of reply.
Justa few mints had passed, Zara couldn't stop her self “You know what Ayesha, sometimes, the mere presence of certain people can be draining, even if they mean well,” Zara said loudly enough for Abdul Hadi to overhear, prompting Ayesha to hush her.
As the drove to buy some other important stuff necessary for their stall, they didn't realize that four hours had passed.
“I’m starving. How about we grab some mango shakes from that stall?” Zara suggested, pointing to a nearby vendor.
“We’re here to work. Let’s finish up quickly so I can get home,” Abdul Hadi replied, turning down her suggestion.
Moments later, Ayesha drove with Abdul Hadi beside her and Zara sulking in the back seat. They soon found themselves lost, asking passersby for directions to their desired items.
“Did you know that a well-fed body functions better?” Zara mused as they wandered from shop to shop.
“Indeed,” Abdul Hadi replied, “Humans can survive without food for 21 days.” He shared this tidbit of knowledge, though Zara ignored him.
“I’m not sure where we’re heading next, but it better involve satisfying our hunger,” Zara said, dismissing Abdul Hadi’s input.
“Oh, I was referring to humans, my mistake,” Abdul Hadi clarified, continuing ahead.
With time, Zara and Abdul Hadi had reached a point where their exchanges were often laced with sarcasm. Their banter became so sharp that even Ayesha couldn’t tell whether their growing bond was built on mutual amusement or hidden frustration. The line between playful teasing and subtle jabs blurred. It was a language of its own, a constant back-and-forth that kept everyone guessing about the true nature of their relationship.
Zara glared at him, muttering to Ayesha, “If I were to harm someone in the future, don’t be surprised if he’s the unfortunate target.”
As the clock struck four, after one hour of fruitless searching, Ayesha suggested, “I’m famished. How about we eat at the nearby KFC? It’s just a five-minute walk.”
“Sure,” Abdul Hadi agreed immediately.
Zara, feeling a mix of frustration and hunger, murmured, “Look at those lovebirds,” feeling betrayed by his quick agreement to Ayesha’s suggestion, while he didn't listen to her when she asked to have something to eat. Both Ayesha and Abdul Hadi heard her, though they pretended not to. Ayesha cast a sideways glance to see if Abdul Hadi had noticed, signaling Zara to hold her tongue. Zara, still upset and hungry, stared out the window, and didn't paid attention, at that moment, her only concern was food.
At KFC, they enjoyed their meals, with Abdul Hadi graciously settling the bill. Zara excused herself to visit the restroom. As Abdul Hadi stood at the counter, eagerly awaiting choco cones, Ayesha sat alone at table for zara to come out, and then they approached him. Abdul Hadi handed a cone to Zara and then to Ayesha, who hesitated but took it. Unexpectedly, Zara declared, “Let it be known, she doesn’t like chocolate.”
There was a brief pause before Zara demanded, “Give me that one too,” reaching for Ayesha’s untouched cone. Soon, Zara found herself holding two cones.
“Oh, I wasn’t aware. I’ll get a vanilla one,” Abdul Hadi offered, but Ayesha declined, saying she was full.
The day passed without further incident until, on their way to drop Abdul Hadi off, Zara asked, “I’ve heard rumors about your connection with Professor Sher Shah. Am I mistaken?”
“Yes, he’s my uncle. I must say, your sleuthing skills are impressive!” Abdul Hadi responded as he never told them about their relationship. He wanted to keep it private.
“I don’t mind using my observational skills if it serves my purpose,” Zara said, emphasizing the word “observational” rather than “stalker.”
“Do you think it will benefit you in some way?” Abdul Hadi asked.
“Since we’re collaborating, I suggest arranging a meeting with Professor Sher Shah to discuss potential challenges. His seniority could offer valuable insights,” Zara proposed.
“I’m afraid I can’t assist with that. I prefer to keep my personal and professional lives separate,” Abdul Hadi replied.
“I was just asking. If necessary, I’ll approach him directly at the university” Zara said, maintaining her caution.
“I’m not sure,” Abdul Hadi replied, seeming eager to end the conversation.
Ayesha, feeling uneasy and choosing silence, reflected on her lack of knowledge about any connection between Abdul Hadi and Professor Sher Shah. Unlike Zara, she was more reserved and introspective.
“Okay, I’ll catch you later tomorrow,” Abdul Hadi said as they arrived at his home, saying his goodbyes and heading inside, while they waited for him to move inside. He was at the door ringing the bell.
“No matter how much I try, he remains rude and refuses to show humility. I’ll make sure to reciprocate his behavior in the future,” Zara fumed as soon as Abdul Hadi was out of earshot.
“You asked the question, and he gave a straightforward answer. A negative response should be respected,” Ayesha advised, being the voice of reason.
“You’re right,” Zara finally realized her frustration was misplaced.
“I always am. By the way, how did you know they were related?” Ayesha asked, her curiosity piqued by the unexpected revelation.
“I sincerely pray that he doesn't assume that I've snooped into his online presence, for I don't want to come across as an eerie observer.
“You mean stalker?”
Zara shushed Ayesha for her interruption and continued, “Interestingly, Abu was acquainted with Professor Sher Shah back in their university days, and through this connection, so he had some insight into professor's whereabouts. It was during one such conversation that Abu mentioned the existence of a nephew named Abdul Hadi, and by chance, I happened to mention the name of Abdul Hadi's father. Although Abu claimed to have no recollection. It was just a bluff, and he unknowingly fell for it.”
“Such a slick”
Zara told her the truth, Abdul Hadi wehnt in, and she started the car again, just then they saw Professor Sher Shah coming out of the house, and Abdul Hadi behind him, they got out of the car and greeted him. “Good to see you people here. Be my guest, come and let’s have a talk inside our house, it doesn’t feel right letting two young ladies and that my students too let go without asking for a cup of tea.”
“But, it’s dinner time.” Zara only realized after saying this to professor Shershah. Sometimes she wondered how much could she be more outspoken and this was one of those moments.
Profesor Shershah laughed whole heartedly, “Yeah, sure sure. Why not? Come on, I will serve you with the best, I promise.”
The sudden appearance of Professor Sher Shah interrupted their conversation, and Abdul Hadi, standing behind him, seemed restless, clearly wanting to avoid an encounter. None of them had anticipated Professor Sher Shah’s unexpected arrival.
“Thank you for your generosity, sir,” Ayesha said smoothly, stepping in to defuse the situation. “We’ll catch up with you at college. Perhaps another time.”
“Yes, sir, we’ll leave you two here,” Zara added, eager to escape the awkwardness she felt after her earlier comments. “Shall we go, Ayesha?”
“Oh, well, suit yourself. I thought we might discuss your stall ideas as well,” Professor Sher Shah said, offering an opportunity that Zara was keen to seize. Ayesha seemed intrigued too. Zara glanced at Abdul Hadi, hoping to gauge his reaction. She anticipated some sign of annoyance, and if she saw any, she was ready to leave. But Abdul Hadi’s face remained inscrutable, and she decided to postpone the discussion, instinctively.
“Thank you so much for the offer, sir,” Zara said diplomatically “We’d love to join you, but it’s getting late, and our families are expecting us. Will you be available tomorrow at the university?”
“Yes, of course. You can visit my office after lectures, and you’re also welcome to join me for tea here anytime,” Professor Sher Shah replied warmly.
“Thank you, sir,”
“Take care. See you then,” Professor Sher Shah said as they parted ways.
The girls got into the car, with Ayesha driving towards Zara’s home. Zara, brimming with excitement about their meeting the next day, chattered enthusiastically while Ayesha listened with a smile.
The following day, the trio sat in Professor Sher Shah’s office, where they presented their idea. Professor Sher Shah’s approval was evident. He already had shown that he loved the idea when they submitted it to him, and told them that their idea had a good potential at earning.
“Sir, is there anything more you suggest we include or exclude?” Ayesha asked.
“Your plan is perfect as it is. There’s nothing more to add. You already have started executing it, that just seems fair too.” Professor Sher Shah assured them. “But if you’re interested, I can highlight some potential hurdles and things to be cautious about.”
“That would be very helpful,” Zara said, eager to hear more.
Professor Sher Shah began to explain, offering valuable insights and advice that would help them navigate the challenges ahead.
Professor Sher Shah continued, "Firstly, ensure everyone is on the same page and that their roles and responsibilities are well-defined."
"Secondly," he added, "keep a close eye on your budget and expenses. Financial mismanagement can lead to unexpected setbacks. Regularly review your expenditures and make sure you’re sticking to your budget."
They all listened to him very carefully and with whole attention.
"Lastly," Professor Sher Shah concluded, "be prepared for setbacks and don’t get disheartened. Not every plan goes smoothly, and sometimes you might be at failures, but that’s how it is. You are already taking the risk, so be ready that there is always 50-50 chance in making success or getting failed."
They were grateful for the advice and felt more confident about moving forward with their project.
"Thank you so much, Professor, " Zara said sincerely. "Your insights are incredibly valuable."
Ayesha thanked him too, "You are welcome. I’m excited to see where your project goes. Remember, I’m here if you need any further guidance."
Abdul Hadi had been quiet all along, saying little. On the surface, he seemed fine, but deep down, he was uneasy about mixing his professional and personal lives. Now that both Ayesha and Zara knew he was the nephew of Professor Sher Shah, he could feel the weight of the revelation. These interactions had, in their own way, helped him momentarily forget his pain, but they left him confused. He wondered if he was capable of maintaining balance and setting clear boundaries, questioning whether he could protect himself from further heartbreak.