There was a vast desert in front of him. He hears some echoes, like somebody was calling him, something was pulling him to enter that scary cannibal dessert. He was resisting that force but he was helpless. He kneels down on his knees due to thirst. He finds himself in the search of something, something that belongs to him, something that can relieve him, something that can pull him out of the dark and deep grieved dungeon, something that can heal his wounds. Suddenly he saw a hand coming towards him. He holds that hand and he wakes up.
He was on his bed shivering, drenched in sweat, breaths out of rhythm. His mom calls him, 'Mujtaba! Get up boy, its time for Fajr prayer.
Mujtaba got up, offered prayer and then was reciting the Holy Quran. Suddenly he stopped on one verse,' A person always gets what he strives for'. Memory flashed back to 8 years ago, he remembered many things. He was running like a mad man for that person to whom he loved more than his life, to whom he always preferred over himself, for whom he went to every gate of saints, but in the end what he got, he was returned empty handed. While reading that verse he thought if Allah Almighty says He never returns his man empty handed, then why he was returned empty handed? Why he was not given that thing for which he asked with his full zeal and zest? At that moment he doubted that verse but he didn't know that Allah says He never returns his man empty handed but for that, that is best for his man. If His man cries for a thing that is not better for him, He awards him with the best and saves him from the evil. Mujtaba wiped out his tears and went out to jogging track. On the track he was just thinking about that verse, its not the thing that he was a believer or not. But he wanted the confirmation. Like the others want for their satisfaction.
_______________________________________
Past
,'And the new Headboy of the college is Mujtaba Kareem', Principal announced. Mujtaba rose from his seat and walked proudly towards the stage to wear the sash. He was one of the most brilliant students of his college. He was a very dominant debator among his competitors. Tall heighted, golden color complexion, deep and serious eyes, well mannered and a very disciplined guy. Belonged to a Upper- middle class family and quite confident. He was a Leo and each and every merit and demerit of Leo reflected in him. Hunger to conquer everything, dominating, man of his words, little bit hasty.
He wore the sash, and got back to his seat. Principal was admiring him but he was looking all around the hall for someone special. He saw her sitting around a corner. Mujtaba smiled and whispered to himself, 'Finally she is here'. She was Laila. Mujtaba was eagerly waiting for her to see him wear the sash.
After the assembly they all went out of the hall to their respective classes. Everyone was congratulating Mujtaba but he was waiting for the best wishes from Laila. They both were just friends but Mujtaba had no idea that with the passage of time he was getting closer and closer to Laila. He had fallen for her. Laila was realising that but she had neither the intentions to take a step forward towards Mujtaba nor she was interested in him. To her Mujtaba was just a friend.Mujtaba was sitting on his bench when Laila came.Laila said, 'Finally you have done it, many many congratulations'. Mujtaba smiled.
'Thanks Laila, this means alot to me', Mujtaba answered delightfully.
'Are you gonna celeberate today' ? Laila asked.
'Should I celeberate it'? Mujtaba asked in a happy mood.
'I think we all should celeberate your achievement'. Laila answered.
'Okay we are gonna celeberate today'. Mujtaba cherished.He had to celeberate it even though he didn't want to, because now Laila had said to celeberate it then how can he refuse Laila. Whole class celeberated his success. He was quite happy because he was able to make some unforgettable memories specially with Laila, though he didn't know after some time he would be begging the God to remove all the memories. He was cheering at that moment but the fate was also laughing on him at the same time.
________________________________________
Present,
Moiz got out of shower, his mobile was ringing, he saw the name of the caller, smiled and picked up the call. It was his wife Parishey on the other side.
'How are you my sweetie' ? Moiz cheerfully asked.
'Never better my crown prince' Parishey answered.
'I am so angry at you, its been a week and you haven't return to home from your parent's home'. Moiz acted angery.
'Aw sorry sweet heart, I called you to tell you that I am arriving today's evening'. Parishey informed her husband.
'So finally after a long waiting we will be having night walks together', Moiz replied comfortly.
'Me too was badly missing that routine', Parishey told him.
'Fine, then the roads are gonna listen to our footsteps, moon gonna witness my love after a whole freaking week, wind gonna whistle into ears' Welcome back buddies' and stars gonna listen to our gossips.
'Ah! But time will fly with the blink of an eye', Moiz got little bit emotional.
'But we won't forget it till death', Parishey backed him.
'Should I come to pick you'? Moiz asked.
'No I will be there myself in the evening, you just go to your office but donot forget to welcome me honey', Parishey reminded him.
'Sure', Moiz disconnected the call.
'Ali! Ali! Come here', Moiz called his servant.
'Cook the very best dishes today, your mistress will be here soon', Moiz instructed Ali.
Moiz and Parishey had love marriage. Both had the outstanding mind matching and understandings. They both met at a social gathering. Parishey seemed a capable and a very good partner to Moiz. Moiz started further interactions with her. After sometime Moiz sent his parents to Parishey's home for the final step. Luckily both the families agreed and they got married. After marriage, Moiz tried his level best to prove himself to be a nice and supportive husband. Parishey was also proving herself to be a good wife and a well-mannered daughter-in-law.
The door got knock in the evening. Moiz just rushed towards the door. He opened the door and wide opened his arms to welcome her with a warm hug. Moiz kissed her forehead and kept his arms around her for a while. After getting fresh,they were sitting around the table for dinner and were chating. Suddenly Parishey said, 'I think Mujtaba should move on now'. Moiz nodded his head and said, 'Yes, he should and he has to move on, what has been done in past its done now'.
'What are his plans after the completion of his degree'? Parishey asked in worry.
'Ah! He had been through a miserable tragedy, he needs time to get settle, a person who had served military for 7 years, its not easy for him to get settle in the civil environment', Moiz answered in a deep voice.
'He has to get up on his feet once again, he is a warrior, doesn't accept his defeat easily', Parishey optimistically said.
'I know him since my childhood ,I believe he will strike once again and this time he will strike even more harder, he doesn't learn to live on his knees, I have my faith in him', Moiz agreed to Parishey.
Parishey knew Mujtaba with the reference of Moiz,as Moiz and Mujtaba were close friends.
After the failure of Mujtaba many of his comrades left him alone in the quick sand , but some of his companions stayed with him, Moiz was one of them.
It is a fact that success provides you fans and companions but your failure provides you true fans and companions, who stand shoulder to shoulder with you in your worst time.
'Well I have an idea', Parishey said.
'Why don't we find a suitable girl for Mujtaba', Parishey shared her views.
'Oh you want Mujtaba to shoot me staright away in my head', Moiz answered.
'You know what are you talking about?' Moiz asked Parishey.
'Listen! We both can help Mujtaba to pull him out of his hard times, hopelessness by making him live again like before'. Parishey told.
'Its impossible to talk to Mujtaba on this topic' Moiz denied. 'We both know Ayat, a very well-mannered, sensible and mature girl and foremost thing she is religious as well . She can be a flicker of hope for Mujtaba, she has the ability to pull him out of the quick sand', Parishey said. _________________________________________
'Are you in your senses?' Mujtaba shouted with angered.
'Listen Mojo! I know it sounds crazy for you but Laila is no more in your life, she never was,' Moiz was trying to cool him down.
'How dare you to talk about her like this? She was there, she was always there until God snatched her from my arms' Mujtaba painfully said.
Moiz tried to motivate him, 'It was His will', you couldn't do anything. '
' Then why me ? I haven't done anything wrong to anyone, I was always there for help who were in need of help, I just loved only one person of my own choice in my whole life. And look what God has done to me? He left my hands full of sand. What I have done wrong to God? 'Mujtaba was crying.
Moiz was sitting beside him and was persuading him,' Ayat is a very nice girl and matches with your standard, I know her,Parishey knows her, buddy! We always do care about you, you are my brother, I cannot misguide you, just have a look at her, may be God wanted to save you from what is not good for you my boy! , try to understand God's will, bow down to Him and ask His blessings and seek His forgiveness, 'Moiz said politely.
' I want you to think over my point, Ayat is the best girl to me for you man'.
Moiz stood up and left.
Past
Mujtaba was preparing for his declamation contest when Laila entered in classroom with Amir.
'You are here and we are searching for you in the whole college building.' Amir said.
'I hope everything is fine little master', Mujtaba poked him.
'Oh yeah everything is fine', Amir laughed.
'I just had a bet with Laila that this time you won't clinch the trophy', Amir said to Mujtaba.
Mujtaba smiled and asked, 'What she's saying?'
'Well! I said you will win this time', Laila smiled.
'Oh! Look at her faith man!,' Amir acted as he was in shock.
'Yeah, I do, after all he is my friend, I should back him', Laila logically replied.
Mujtaba smiled and said, 'Yeah she is right, I need her support'.
'You are doing well Mojo!, I heard your speech'
Laila told him.
'Just don't let my faith down okay! ', Laila reminded him.
'I won't, you can believe me.' Mujtaba informed her.
'I know you won't', Laila smiled.
Laila took her seat.
'Hey buddy!, is there something in between you two or its just my own thought'? Amir asked in sarcastic mood.
'Shutup you idiot, You will get me shot by her,' Mujtaba grabbed his chin in light mood.
'I am getting everything, Why are you blushing? Oh yes its the matter of love', Amir rushed outside after saying this.
'He will get me in jail', Mujtaba murmured.
The Next Day,Speeches were delivered by all the contestants and all were eagerly waiting for the results. Mujtaba was quite calm and confident. Vice Principal came at the rostrum and announced the result. Mujtaba stood 3rd in the competition. It was unbelievable for the whole class because they weren't expecting him on 3rd place.
After the competition, Mujtaba was sitting quite in the garden of the College. Amir came and sat besides him and said.
'You did well man, its okay better luck next time',
'Yeah its fine,' Mujtaba answered.
'Then why are you quite? , you didn't attend the lecture', Amir asked.
'Didn't want to attend the lecture', Mujtaba said.
'Everyone was asking about you', Amir informed him.
'Everyone!?' Mujtaba asked to confirm.
'Ah! I mean... Laila', Amir hid his smile and answered in low voice.
'You will never be serious', Mujtaba laughed lowly, his mood was changed.
'Oh come on man, you know we love you', Amir grabbed his neck around his shoulder.
'Hey Mojo! , lets go to canteen', suddenly Moiz made his entry.
'Yeah only you were missing huh?' Amir replied.
Moiz gave him a shutup call and pulled their hands.
'Get up, hurry up, otherwise Biryani will get end', Moiz scolded.
'No compromise on Biryani man! ,' Mujtaba said.
They all three almost rushed towards the canteen to eat their favourite Biryani with an icy cold tin of Coke.
________________________________________
Present.
Mujtaba had an album in his hand. He was caressing at the picture where they both were sitting on a couch showing a victory sign. 'Ayat is the best choice to me for you', Moiz's voice echoed in his ears.
Moiz's conversation was continously hammering his head.
Mujtaba was not ready for all of this. Mujtaba stood up, opened the fridge, took out an energy drink and went to study room. He wanted to delude his mind from reality. He was sitting on a rocking chair and continously trying to escape from Moiz's point. He opened his diary and on the very first page he read a quote,
'Don't start your day with the broken pieces of yesterday, Every morning we wake up is the first day of our rest of the life'.
He closed his diary. He knew it was the most difficult thing to do in his life. He couldn't forget Laila. He didn't want to. He thought if he forgot her, it would be unfair and disgrace to her. He picked up his phone and started scrolling his social media. He wanted to engage himself so that he might not get any other thoughts, but after sometime he got bore. He started reading novel. While reading the novel, suddenly a reference from a verse of Holy Quran came,
'And indeed there is ease after every difficulty'.
After few pages, he again read a reference from a verse ,
'And He knows the secrets of hearts'. Mujtaba was stunned, everything was reflecting to his condition. He immediately closed the novel and walked off the room.
Next day, he was finalising his project for the Masters degree, his mobile rang, he saw the name and picked up the call.
'Hello Mojo! Everything okay there?', Amir asked.
'Yeah, all good', Mujtaba answered.
'Are you free tonight? ', Amir asked.
'Umm yeah, I will make myself free till 8 o'clock', Mujtaba guessed.
'Okay, 9 o'clock Moiz will pick up from your place and you both are going to have dinner with me tonight,' Amir informed his program.
'Fine, we will be there', Mujtaba answered.
-----------------------------------------------------------Moiz was waiting for him outside his house.Mujtaba opened the gate and walked towards his car.
They both shook hands.
Mujtaba sat on the front seat, on the back seat Parishey was sitting.
'How are you doing Mujtaba?, ' Parishey aksed.
'I am doing great', Mujtaba answered.
'What are your plans after the degree', Prishey wanted to know about his plans.
'Aa.., I have several offers from a number of companies, I will consider them and will join one of them', Mujtaba informed her.
'Oh that's great', Parishey expressed her happiness because she got to know finally he is ready to strike again harder.
'Hmm,' Mujtaba replied shortly.
Rest of the journey passed in silence.
They all were sitting around the dinner table. Amir was the host.
Moiz spoke,'Actually we all gathered here to talk to you Mojo!,'
Mujtaba stopped eating and start looking at Moiz.
Amir continued, 'Mojo! Me and Moiz had a conversation regarding you, I hope you won't mind but the point is that now it's been more than five years to that incident, we both think you are doing unfair with yourself, look at your caliber man! , you are wasting yourself,'
'What you people want from me?,' Mujtaba asked aggresively.
'We want you to live your life happily like you lived before,like you used to enjoy in the past, you were happy at that time,' Parishey added.
'Ahh past ,past and past! I don't have the reason to live like past', Mujtaba painfully said.
'But we do,' said Amir.
'I have told you about Ayat, we want you to move your step forward to her, she is the best girl I have ever known,' Moiz told him.
They all started convincing him.
After a while Mujtaba said in deep grieve , 'Why should I move on?Why me every time? Why not others get pain? Why God every time put me in that situation? What I have committed so wrong?'
'Because God wants to make you closer to Him but you are not getting Him.' said Parishey.
'Listen man, it was God who put Laila in your heart, it was Him who put you in Laila's heart as well, nothing was possible without His will, if He wants you to move on then why you are questioning His will?He knows something that you don't, Did you ever try to thank Him for His countless blessings on you? ' Moiz scolded him politely. Mujtaba was speechless for a second.
' We do care about you man!, you are our best friend who helped us in our bad time then how can we let you down in your bad patch? ' Amir said in a low but strong voice
-----------------------------------------------------------
Mujtaba was laying down in his bed that night, eyes were wet and red, reminding good old but painful memories with Laila.
' So this is your fate Mojo',he was talking to himself.
'So finally I have to move on to my real and new life', Mujtaba murmured.
He picked up his phone and searched for the contacts.
________________________________________
Present,
'A good news for us', Moiz told Parishey in a positive mood.
'And what it is?', Parishey asked.
'He has agreed to meet Ayat', Moiz informed her.
'Really'? ' Parishey didn't believe.
' Yeah, he called me earlier today and told me that he is preparing himself to move on'. Moiz further said.
'So when you are going to tell Ayat about him and are you sure she would agree to this? '. Parishey seemed little worried about Ayat.
'I've already informed Ayat, furthermore I've cleared all the doubts of Ayat regarding Mujtaba'. Moiz told her.
_______________________________________
Past,
They all were graduated from the college. Some of them were very happy, some were in worry about their future plans, some of them had already passed the initial stages of their future career like Moiz, Mujtaba, Amir, Saliha and Laila.
Mujtaba and Amir opted for commission in military and were quite successful in passing the initial entry tests.
Moiz cleared the IELTS and SATS exams which were helping him to enter in top universities.
Saliha and Laila cleared the tests of the several medical universities and opted the field of physiotherapy.
They decided to have a little meetup in some restaurant.
They all were sitting together, laughing, cherrishing, kidding, suddenly Saliha looked towards Mujtaba who was continously looking at Laila.
Saliha smiled and realised something, then she teased Mujtaba,
'If you are very fond of looking at Laila, then make her your wife and then you can sit in front of her for the whole life and easily fulfill your wish',
Mujtaba got confused and he just looked around and laughed. His face got red due to sudden attack.
Moiz and Amir laughed so loudly that people sitting in the restaurant start looking at them.
Laila pinched Saliha's arm and warned her not to repeat that stupid act again.
Moiz and Amir made eye contact with Saliha and nodded their heads and gave a signal to Saliha. She nodded her head too. Moiz and Amir took Mujtaba outside with some excuse.
Laila asked, 'Where are you going guys'?
'Just coming after meeting my uncle'. Amir replied.
Mujtaba asked Amir " This isn't the right time to see your so-called uncle mate".
Amir grabbed his neck and pushed forward and said" Shut up and keep walking with us ".
Moiz laughed and Mujtaba got annoyed.
Both Saliha and Laila were sitting on the table.
'Well I must say you are lucky', Saliha talked to Laila.
'And why?', Laila asked.
'Someone looks at you so adorably and wants to love you unconditionally', Saliha said.
"What the heck?". Laila literally got springs.
'Are you talkng about Mojo?' Laila asked.
'Hmm', Saliha replied shortly.
Before the meetup Moiz and Amir requested Saliha to talk to Laila about Mujtaba and help them to settle both of them.
'Oh , Yeah I had a doubt that he has soemthing in his mind regarding me', Laila admitted.
'So then what are you waiting for?' Saliha asked politely.
'We are good friends, but I've never thought something like this in between me and Mujtaba', Laila said in a low voice.
'I must say you should think over it', Saliha advised her.
'He is a mature guy, understands the situations, well groomed, has a very good sense of humor, yeah he is some sort of serious guy but he is good indeed.' Saliha further added.
'Why are you taking his side by the way?' Laila asked.
'Because I know you both would be a very good match for each other' Saliha replied.
'And how can you say that?' Laila asked again.
'Because I know both of you', Saliha replied.
Laila looked at her and gave no reaction. _______________________________________
Present,
Parishey was talking to a girl when Moiz and Mujtaba entered in the house.
Parishey looked at them and welcome Mujtaba to their house.
Moiz was standing beside Mujtaba. The girl turned around, Mujtaba looked at her quietly, Moiz took the initiative and introduced both of them.
'Mojo, she is Ayat, Ayat Qureshi, Final year student of Bachelor's in Computer Science.
Medium heighted, beautiful eyes with rounded spectacles, head and hairs covered with Hijab, rounded chin, not a sharp face cut but it was suiting her, gorgeous color complexion. She wasn't Laila but she was quite pretty.
' Hello', Mujtaba nodded his head.
'Ayat, I told you about Mujtaba Kareem, he is Mojo', Moiz explained to Ayat.
'Hi', Ayat smiled and nodded back her head.
'So, Me and Parishey are going to check the dinner, you guys can carry on with your conversation', Moiz put his hand on Mujtaba's shoulder and said.
Moiz and Parishey left the lounge.
There was silence for the next few moments.
Both didn't know how to break the ice.
Finally Ayat said.
'I heard about you, your whole story',
'Not an ideal sentence to start a conversation but anyways, nevermind. I am pretty sure Moiz told you regarding me', Mujtaba said.
'Aa, yes Moiz and Parishey told me, I hope you are doing well now', Ayat fumbled but kept hold on herself.
'Yeah I am trying to do', Mujtaba replied in a low voice.
Again there was silence in the louge.
Suddenly Ayat asked 'why you left military despite being an Aeronautical Engineer!? ',
'I was not able to cope up there and also there were some health issues with me', Mujtaba tried to give an excuse.
After some time she again said.
'Actually I like military guys very much',
'But I am not a military person anymore', Mujtaba laughed lowly and said.
'But you have served in military', Ayat said.
'Yeah I've', Mujtaba replied.
'So it doesn't matter', Ayat explained.
'So have you decided already?' Mujtaba asked in a serious voice.
'Aa.., I don't know but Moiz showed me your pictures and it impressed me and then the way Moiz explained you in front of me, then I thought like it doesn't matter if we take time to understand each other, may be we can find out a way to come closer.' First Ayat got confuse on his serious mood but she normalised herself and explained.
' Yes, we can take time, we can understand each other, if it happens then we can think to carry on further and then the next stages you know'. Mujtaba slightly agreed to her.
Ayat smiled. Yes it was true that Mujtaba's grace and way of talking impressed her.
On the other hand Mujtaba felt that the rock that was placed in his chest instead of heart for the women, something has struck it and shook it harder.
'Dinner is ready guys!', Parishey came in the lounge.
They were sitting at dinner when Moiz whispered in his ear.
'How is she ?'
Mujtaba gave no reaction. Moiz again asked and he again didn't answer.Moiz grabbed his sleeve and tried to seek his attention ,Mujtaba starred at him and then smiled and whispered :
"I will see what she brings with her" .
Moiz gave him a hidden high five and Mujtaba cursed him and they both secretly laughed.
'Ayat Qureshi... May be a flicker of hope for me', Mujtaba murmured.
_______________________________________
Past,
They all got busy in their professional lives.
Moiz got admission in Accounting and Finance Department. Amir got medically unfit in the CMB but he managed to get himself induct in a top ranked university of Pakistan.
Mujtaba successfully joined his training while Laila and Saliha also started their new journey in medical field. Everything was going smooth and they were happy with their chosen careers. In vacations, they planned trips, used to spend time together and discuss their problems to each other and always came up with better solutions. Their group was an ideal group. Sometimes they had issues anx arguments among them but one of them always stepped back to save that bond. That was the best part of their friendship.
In the next 4 years, many things changed.
Mujtaba successfully completed his degree and training and passed out of academy.
Moiz got a handsome job in some bank.
Laila and Saliha were in their final years.
Amir joined a multi-national company.
One day they all were sitting together but Mujtaba was not there due to some official duties, Moiz asked Saliha and Laila about their plans of getting married because Moiz already got engaged in his 3rd year of university.
Saliha said, 'There is a proposal in my parent's sight, the guy seems fine to my parents so if they will agree then there will be the next steps. I have left that choice to my parents'.
'Oh yes... Mummy Daddy pampered child.' Moiz mocked her.
'Shutup', Saliha laughed in a low voice.
'So Laila... How's our brother Mojo for your choice?', Moiz asked Laila in a sarcastic mood.
'Mojo is fine..', Laila answered.
'So okay guys its done now, from Mojo side we are asking for your hand Laila. Saliha will answer from your side', Amir cherished.
'What the hell... , I didn't mean that', Laila got confuse.
'We are agreed to Mojo's prosposal', Saliha gave a naughty smile.
'Its not a joke,Shut up , you guys are never serious,' Laila's mood got off.
'Okay okay fine, we were just kidding', Moiz surrendered.
'I don't like these type of affairs and stuffs,' Laila explained.
'Fine, we are not forcing you, we are just kidding', Saliha tapped Laila's shoulder.
'If this message is from Mujtaba then tell him I will screw him', Laila said in a light mood.
'Amir! Prepare the coffin please, Mojo is going to die', Moiz laughed.
They all laughed.
________________________________________
Present,
Mujtaba was giving the final touch to his project and presentations of M.phill, which he was supposed to present in front of the committee in the next 3 days, appointed for the final seminar of Mphill.
He was little bit nervous but trying to compose himself. He was quite busy in the next 3 days. He was aslo having a job interview by Civil Aviation Authority for the Senior Aerospace Engineer post.
_______________________________________
Seminar Day,
Mujtaba gave his project presentation on the manufacturing and development of the 4th generation aircaft engines.
Now the Committee was questioning him about his project. His project was declared above average. He got little low because his project was not much appreciated that meant his job interview would be little bit difficult regarding his professional field.
He was sitting in his lawn when his mom arrived.
'Mujtaba what happened?' Mom asked.
'Nothing just sitting' Mujtaba answered.
He was feeling little disappointment.
'Son, don't lose hope, Allah always help those who help themselves', his mom advised.
'Yeah, lets see how much Allah helps me, I am waiting for His miracle for a long time,' Mujtaba said.
'Indeed He will shower His countless blessings on you shortly, I do believe in Him,' his mother motivated him.
'Yeah Mama', Mujtaba replied.
'Do not leave prayers, He is the best plannar indeed because only He knows what is right for us and what is wrong, He always takes care of His creatures.' His mom advised him.
He nodded quietly.
________________________________________
'And Allah may aid you with mighty victory'
( Al Fatah,Holy Quran).
Mujtaba read this verse and smiled. He was still hopeful to strike again in the game with his full strength. He closed The Holy Quran.
Today he was having his job interview. There was something which was relieving him. He couldn't find out whether it was the verse that gave him motivation or his mother's advice.
He was heading towards the office in which his future was to be decided. He asked Allah Almighty for His help and entered into the office.
After 45 minutes he got out of the office, drenched in sweat but seemed satisfy. The result of the interview was to be announced by next morning.
_______________________________________
Past,
Laila was sitting in the lawn at Amir's wedding venue. Saliha silently called Moiz.
Moiz pushed Mojo towards lawn. He smiled and walked in the lawn and sat beside Laila. Laila smiled.
'Hi!', Mojo waved.
'Hey', Laila replied.
' Listen! Aa, actually I wanna say something.' Mojo was confused and nervous.
'Listening', Laila answered shortly.
'Aaaa..... Aaa...' Mujtaba stammered.
'I think you wanna say something special huh?' Laila asked.
'Aaa... Yes important ,very important' Mojo answered.
'My ears on you then' Laila said.
'I think I am still nervous' he said.
'Okay fine, take your time' Laila helped him.
'Yeah i think I should take some time' Mojo left the seat.
He turned back and saw Moiz and Saliha were standing behind. Moiz had hunter in his hand and was warning him in his eyes that if he didn't say today he will beat him like donkey.
Mojo gave him a helpless expression but Moiz denied and showed him hunter again and Saliha showed him a knuckled punch.
He again sat helplessly.
'Aaa.. Listen' Mojo called Laila.
'Yes' Laila answered.
'Can we roam around for a while', Mojo asked.
'Yeah sure, why not' Laila stood up.
They were walking on the grass. Mojo said
'Laila.... I just wanna say that I think we share some same qualities and disqualities.'
'Yeah' Laila said.
'I wanna say like..... If I send my parents to your home.. Like are you getting me? I want to be with you if I send them would you mind?', Mojo was still nervous and afraid.
Laila turned her back and said.
'Saliha told me about your feelings for me Mojo'.
'What the hell Saliha, I will definitely kill you now', Mojo literally wanted to grab Saliha's neck at that moment.
'I don't know what will my parents decide, but you can send your parents to my house', Laila smiled.
'Really?', Mojo didn't believe it.
'Yeah', Laila answered.
'Thank God', Mojo exclaimed.
'I didn't say that I will accept it, I just said you can send them', Laila reminded him.
'Lets hope for the best', Mojo smiled and left.
'But prepare for the worst too Mojo', Laila said from behind.
Mojo gave a laughter.
He was very happy that night, that he couldn't explain that.
Moiz was standing there with Saliha. He saw Mojo coming. He showed him hunter.
'There's no need of it' Mojo smiled in happiness.
'Don't tell me she is agreed' Saliha said.
'I have done it, ' Mojo hugged Moiz tightly.
'Man you have done it, I still can't believe it' Moiz said in uncertainty.
'Yeah I have' Mojo had tears of joy in his eyes.
________________________________________
Present,
Mojo was sitting on a bench when his cell phone poped up. He took out the cell phone. There was a message from Saliha. She was asking about the result of the interview. He silently switched off the screen and put it back in his pocket and took out a cigarette and lightened it.
'You are going to be a loser in your life Mujtaba Kareem', a voice struck to his head.
He was thinking of the past.
He smiled and started smoking. This time his cell phone rang. Saliha was calling. He didn't pick up the call.
He got up and start walking towards his home.
He entered in his home, his mother asked.
'Mojo, any news about the result?',
He just had a quite look at his mom and entered silently in his room and locked the door. He kneels down in the centre of his room ad burst out in tears , Nobody knew why he was crying, he was just crying like a baby in the prostration.
________________________________________Past
Mujtaba and Moiz were sitting in Mujtaba's house. Mojo's parents were at Laila's house.
'Why are you so nervous? ', Moiz put his hand out of his hand. Mojo was biting his nails in nervousness.
'You know buddy, what if she rejects me?', Mojo replied.
'Hope for the best', Moiz encouraged him.
'Hmm', Mojo just murmured.
'Come one lets have a Coke', Moiz pulled him.
'Shutup, You think I need a drink right now?', Mojo starred him in annoyed mood.
'Yeah you need it, actually we both need it right now', Moiz said.
'What do you think if she says yes?', Mojo asked innocently.
'Oh yeah I am damn sure she would say yes', Moiz cheered.
Mojo laughed. Moiz's sentence gave him boost.
They were sitting at the cold corner . Mujtaba was thinking of the reply which he was expecting to get from Laila's side, but still his sixth sense was alarming him about the upcoming scenario. He didn't want to put it in his head. He started talking to Moiz about different topics so that he may able to put those thoughts aside. Moiz saw him fighting with his thoughts , he tapped Mojo's shoulder and ask him to go with him to the Mall.
Moiz just wanted to give some space to Mujtaba so that he may release his tension.
They were roaming around the streets , testing different foods in the Mall, driving long distances just to kill the time .
After some time ,they drove back to Mujtaba's house. They both entered in the house and saw Mujtaba's parents were sitting quite in the lounge.
Mujtaba suddenly remembered that his sixth sense was giving him warning about such situation.
Moiz put his hand on his shoulder and whispered.
'Relax buddy, go and ask them'
Mujtaba nodded his head and walked straightly to the lounge and sat quite besides his mother.
'Mom! , Is everything okay?' He asked.
'Yes everything is set and fine', she replied.
'Aaa.. What did Laila's parents decide'? He asked in an afraid manner.
'Indeed Allah is the Best Planner son', She replied in low voice.
'What? Did they agree? Don't tell me they agreed our proposal'. He got springs in his tone with joy.
'No, her parents refused your proposal', His mother said in a gloomy voice.
'No, No,No , they can't do it, how the hell they can refuse ? Laila? Did Laila say something to you? ' ,
'No', his mother replied.
He knelt down .His eyes filled with tears, He was sitting down on the floor and he didn't know what to do.Moiz was also stunnedand surprised, he couldn't believe it either. He hold his head and sat on the bench and murmured.,
'What have you done Laila? You can't do this.'
-----------------------------------------------------------
'What the hell Mojo! No party scenes , no calls, no replies damn! Where the hell are you hiding man, You Owe all of us a damn good Party',
Moiz And Amir came to his house and scolded him like elder brothers because he wasn't replying them .
'Man you should be thankful to Almighty Allah for this prestigious Job. You totally deserved it man , You did it again, You just broke all your chains that were holding you back and conquered again, You have our respect brother'.
They were congratulating and motivating him.
Mujtaba got the Job of Aerospace Engineer , he was happy but not as much excited as he should be because he had an idea about the result that it would come in his favor, he thanked Allah again.And revised the verse,
'Indeed , there is ease after every difficulty '
(Surah Alam Nashrah , Holy Quran)
Past,
Mojo was sitting on the river bridge when Moiz came quietly and sat beside him.
'What are you thinking?', Moiz asked.
' Nothing , Who am I to think about my life?'
Mojo replied in a pianful voice.
'Why? Its your life, you gotta think of it the way you want to spend your life.' Moiz said .
'If you are here to encourage me then you are wasting your time Muzzi', Mojo said straight forwardly.
'I can understand how you are feeling, but you know i can't leave you alone.' Moiz said firmly.
'Right now its better for me being alone and let the things go in the flow', Mojo said helplessly.
' You can't write your fate with your hands.' Moiz tried to make him understand.
'On one hand you are encouraging me to live my life according to my choice and on the other you are convincing me about fate. Are you stupid or you are assuming me being a fool?' Mojo turned towards him aggressively.
'Oh , sorry , i couldn't know what i spoke about, i just wanted to relax you'
Moiz raised his hands in defence.
'Shut up, and leave me alone' Mojo replied rudely.
'Ah, you can give me a shut up call but you know me very well , i can't leave you alone'. Moiz replied.
Mojo gave an aggresive look but didn't say anything.
After some moments Mojo said' okay then sit with me and keep watching the Titanic scene of my life '.
Moiz kept himself quiet.
Suddenly he said ' you know what? , there were life boats on Titanic .'
Mujtaba gave him a furious look.
Moiz apologised immediately ' i am just saying, i am just saying'.
'You know what Muzzi, life is an unbearable load of responsibilities , disappointments, hopelessness, ' Mujtaba called him.
'But life is also blessing, for having the friends, family, their love and care towards you, ' Moiz counter replied.
'Ah , now you wanna be a philosopher', Mujtaba said.
'Nah, i wanna be your side in every situation like a brother holds his brother's hand ,' Moiz said comfortably.
Mujtaba turned around and hugged him tightly.
Moiz kept his head on his shoulder and tapped his back.
' Live your life champ, you know how to win'.
Mujtaba nodded.
________________________________________
Present.
Ayat and Mujtaba started working on their chemistry in order to come up on a stage where they can decide whether they wanna come in a bond that will go along with them forever.
Mujtaba was on the flight line when he received a call from Amir who was asking about his new job and new experiences, then he invited him to join them on weekend for dinner alongside with Ayat.
'Why would i pick Ayat?,' Mojo inquired.
'Oh you both are doing great, pick her up ad come to us', Amir laughed.
'She isn't my wife right now, how the hell i am supposed to pick her up , ' Mojo acyed confused.
'Oh , yeah she isn't your wife but still you people hang out together, tell me something i dont know ,' Amir played cleverly.
Mojo starred towards phone,' Who the hell is leaking these news', Mojo murmured.
'Fine, i will ask her out, if she is willing to come with me ', Mojo said.
'You aren't asking her , you are going to tell her to come to the dinner,' Amir teased him.
'Okay okay now get lost and lemme complete my work,' Mojo scolded him.
'Yes Your Honour, as you wish,' Amir teased him again and immediately cut the call before Mojo could've hold him in track.
The tables were set in the lawn and all were waiting for Mujtaba and Ayat. They were late as usual because of Mujtaba, he takes alot of time to get ready .
Suddenly the main gate opens and a black Audi came in, Moiz lifted up his eyebrow and whispered into Amir's ears,
' New car huh,'
'Looks like he is back on track,' Amir smiled.
It was a good sign for the group to see Mojo being happy again.
They both entered the lawn walking with each other at a short distance, Parishey said.
'Wait , wait ,wait , stay there,'.
'What happened?' Ayat asked in confusion.
'Hold your hands together and then enter ', Amir asked them to enter the lawn as a couple.
'Shut up , we aren't in a permanent relationship right now', Mujtaba laughed slowly.
Moiz, Amir and Parishey were insisting them to hold their hands, and Mujtaba and Ayat were standing in confusion.
Suddenly they hear a shout.
'Surprise' ,they all turned around .
Saliha was standing in the middle of the car porch.
'What the he...' Moiz literally forgot to complete the sentence.
They all were stunned and surprised to see Saliha except Amir, who secretly invited her in order to surprise them.
'Don't tease Mojo, let him be himself, i am by her side okay', Saliha reminded everyone.
Everyone laughed and agreed .
'Yeah we know Mojo got Hitler on his side we don't want any genocide here', Moiz cracked the joke.
'You don't know how much we missed our Big show', Mojo teased her.
'Beware of my knockout punch', Saliha laughed.
'Yeah yeah i know , i won't be able to stand again', Mujtaba said in defensive way.
They all were sitting together on the table laughing, cracking jokes, teasing each other .
'I must admit, Ayat worked so hard on you',
Saliha admitted.
Ayat got red on this compliment.
'Yeah she deserves the credit,' Parishey added,
Mojo smiled and looked at Ayat ,who lower her gaze .
'Oh someone is blushing, hmm hmm', Moiz mocked her.
'Shut up Muzzi,'
Mujtaba defended Ayat.
'Look who's talking, ', Amir said.
'Yeah i am the kne who's talking,' Mujtaba stretched his chest .
'Ahan, pretending to be lawyer huh?',
Saliha said in a meaningful smiled.
' Look ,look , we didn't even notice, they have done matching,'
Mujtaba hold his head in shame.
Ayat laughed.
'Hmm hmm, something is fishy here, i can smell,'
Amir said in sarcasm.
'I know very well about your smelling sensors ', Mujtaba replied.
' Beware of the inspection, soon i will catch you red handed,' Amir lifted his eyebrow and laughed.
'Till that time', Mujtaba raised his glass.
Everyone laughed.
After the dinner
Mujtaba and Saliha were walking,
Saliha asked.' How's she? Is she your type?',
'What do you mean by my type? She is way better than me in every aspect,' Mujtaba replied.
'That's quiet an admire coming from you,'
Saliha said in meaningful way.
'Yeah she is pretty good', Mujtaba admitted.
'When you people are getting married then?,'
Saliha inquired.
'I haven't proposed her, but may be tonight.'
Mujtaba replied.
'In front of us?', Saliha again asked.
'Oh never, you will catch that moment on camera and i can't deal with you guys', Mujtaba replied and the both laughed.
' Sometimes too much waiting can cost you,'
Saliha advised.
'Yeah i am thinking the same,' Mujtaba answered in a thoughtful manner.
'Wish you best of luck', Saliha said.
Mojo smiled.
_______________________________________
________________________________________
Past.
Mujtaba was trying to move on but he couldn't help himself because the amount of pain he was feeling in his chest was increasing day by day and he couldn't find a way to look out and try to escape.
He was going down and out in his real and professional life which was affecting his job, his mental health, his behavior among the colleagues.
Everyone was talking and whispering about him.
He was brilliant in profession but now he lost his control on his skills and wasn't paying attention to the matters.
This matter continues for a couple of months until his command called him out and asked him about his complexities regarding the profession.
That interview ended in horrible style where superiors got the bad impression about his interest in the profession, but they gave him another chance to improve himself,keeping in the sight his previous services.
But they didn't know about the war in which he was pushed and forced to fight with his own soul without any help from the outside, nobody knew what he was dealing with.
He remained silent on his personal issues, didn't discuss with anyone , he was going alone with extreme pain and suffering within himself, he was too helpless to ask for help.
He tried to cut off his relations with his old group but he was very blessed and lucky, they didn't leave him alone. They started visiting him on and off, paying him surprise visit in his posting area, used to take him out and tried to calm him , comfort him , relax him. They knew that they weren't in his shoes but still they did their best to save him from depression.With emmence efforts Amir, Moiz, Saliha they all managed to pulled him together from the dark and deep dungeon which was filled with hopelessness, pain, suffering , regrets .
Mujtaba was in safe hands , but he resigned from his job and slowly slowly started to get on track .
They all were happy for Mujtaba.
But suddenly he got the news that broke him in pieces and he fell seriously ill.
_______________________________________
Present.
'I think its high time for Mujtaba to ask Ayat about future plans.' Parishey presented her opinion regarding Mujtaba and Ayat.
'I know him from his roots ,he will wait for the right time according to him,' Moiz added.
' He takes too much time in these kind of matters.' Parishey carefully added,looking towards Moiz.
'Yeah , it seems right for him because the experience he got from his past made him careful regarding taking such steps ,which is unlikely of him , I know him from past, he was little hasty and always ready to go after the situations. Ah what a fearless and bold guy'.
Moiz admired him.
'You are brave too,' Parishey complimented in a meaningful manner.
'Yeah I was bold enough to propose you, now this regret will haunt me for the rest of the life,' . Moiz mocked her.
'Huh? What did you just say?, You are feeling bored with me? , How dare you ? I am gonna kill you Moiz.' Parishey answered in an mixed emotions and took the pillow and started fighting with Moiz.
Moiz was continously laughing and trying to calm her , but she wasn't listening and both were hitting each other with pillow. This lovely fight continued until the pillows were badly torn by them. Both were exhausted and laughing but happy.
Moiz was laying down in her lap and squeezing her cheeks ,Parishey was smiling she really liked that. For her, Moiz was the best person she ever met. A loving and caring husband who understands everything and solves her every problem. Quite mature guy , who never miss any chance to tease her, surprise her, love her.
_______________________________________
Saliha's routine became hectic when she signed her contract with an International Hospital, she didn't realise how ger days are spending like a blink of eye.
Sometimes she laughed on herself and sometimes she cursed herself for opting Physiotherapy.
One day , she was coming back to home and stopped by a restaurant, she went inside.
Passing her time by writing some routine notes while the food was yet to serve, a knock on the table caught her attention.
She looked up and Amir was standing.
Saliha said,' Oh looks like you like me huh? So still following me?,'
Amir laughed,' You are not Cleopetra, ' and sat down on her table.
'Yeah ,yeah, whatever,' she laughed.
'Yeah, i was passing near-by, this restaurant caught my attention so i came in and yet here you are , ready to finish the whole menu already,' Amir cracked joke on her.
'Seems like you couldn't bear my eating habit, and yet here you are as my so-called nutritionist. ' Saliha counter attacked.
They were teasing each other till the food was served.
While eating Amir told her about his plans for starting his own business.
Saliha applauded ,gave the green signal.
'But who's gonna invest with you?' Saliha suddenly asked.
'Ah, i have very sensible and trust worthy companions like you guys, stuck around with me for past 8 9 years," Amir started buttering Saliha.
' Hmm, Hmm , yeah sensible enough to save their money rather than investing in a donkey's cart.' Saliha mocked him.
Amir laughed.
' Ah just kidding, i am having these meeting regarding my new business with some of my close colleagues, i am hoping good actually ,a profitable business.' Amir emphasised.
'Looks like a great deal to you, isn't it?'
Saliha said.
'Yeah it seems so good to see yourself as CEO,' Amir answered in sarcasm.
'Yeah because you know , lazy people like you aren't even allowed to visit CEO.'
Saliha teased her.
'Hahaha, very funny,' Amir mimicked her.
'Nah just kidding, give it a shot.' Saliha encouraged him.
Amir nodded.
_______________________________________
Mujtaba was sitting in his room busy in some paper works and model designing of the engines when he received a text from Raphael, his colleague, who was asking him to meet him next day for some queries and suggestions.
Mujtaba met Raphael during staff training at his company, Tall heighted like him, honey coloured eyes, a very fine smily face.
Mujtaba got impress by his conduct, a very kind hearted but a very talented and professional in his field. With the passage of time they became very good friends. He was in the technical department in the same company. Mujtaba used to design engines and Rafael used to test them technically.
Next day, Mujtaba went to flight lines ,Raphael was already waiting for him.
'What happened?' Mujtaba asked.
'I was just curious about the 4th generation aircrafts,' Raphael answered.
'What happened to them?' Mujtaba inquired.
'2 days ago , Thuder came in the hanger. I thought it was 3.5th generation aircraft, so i started my testing according to the 3rd and 4th generation aircafts, but em still facing some issues regarding fueling system .'
Raphael informed Mujtaba.
'Lemme see', Mujtaba said.
'Is it your first time with Thunder?' Mujtaba asked Raphael.
'Actually yeah, i have been on Mirage III and Mirage V earlier.'
Raphael answered.
' Alright, Listen! , Thunder is 3.5th generation aircraft, means its Airfram is 3rd generation but its Avionics is 4th generation, that's why we call him 3.5th generation. ' Mujtaba provided him details regarding Thunder, instructed him about the basic technical issues and went back to his work.
_____________________________________