Fading Light - mohabbat ki tanhai

Chapter 27

Anayas POV:

A few months later:
I walk through the quiet room, the only sound being Arslan's soft coos as I hold him close, feeding him. His little hands grasp at my fingers, his dark eyes staring up at me, filled with innocence. I smile down at him, my heart swelling with warmth. In these last few months, I've watched him grow, his tiny body getting stronger, his little personality beginning to shine through. He's such a little cutie I could kiss his face all day long.

Ever since Zayan made his feelings clear, he has changed. He has softened like I never imagined, his love no longer hidden behind walls of coldness. He takes me out, makes me feel cherished, whispers words of love against my skin in the quiet moments we share. He has given me a happiness I once thought was impossible.

And now, as I sit in our home, rocking our son in my arms, I finally feel at peace.

„ Mama ki jaan ko nahi or bhook?" ( Mamas baby isn't hungry anymore?)  I talk to Arslan all day waiting for an answer which isn't going to come.
A buzzing sound breaks through my thoughts.

I glance down at my phone, my heart warming when I see Ami's name flashing on the screen.

Ever since she decided to leave my father, things have been... different. Better. She told me it would take time, but she was determined. She was ready to finally be free. And I was ready to see her happy. I have been praying every single day that everything goes smoothly.

I press the answer button, ready to greet her, but—

The moment the call connects, my blood runs cold.

" Tu or teri ma mujhe chorne ka soch rahe the?!" ( You and you're mother were thinking of leaving me?!)

My father's furious voice roars through the speaker.

My breath catches in my throat. Oh god, no!

In the background, I hear Ami sobbing. Crying. Pleading.

"Anaya—! Beta, don't—" she starts, but then—

"If you want your mother safe, you'll come here. Alone. Bring whatever gold and money you have. And don't tell anyone."

His voice is filled with rage, with a coldness that sends shivers down my spine.

The call ends.

My hands tremble. My breathing is uneven. My mind races. What should I do?

I know what he is capable of. I know if I don't go, he will hurt her. What should I do?!

I clutch my phone tightly, my heartbeat loud in my ears. My mother is in danger.

I look down at Arslan, still in my arms, his tiny face peaceful, unaware of the storm that just shattered my world.

I have to go. I have no choice.

A Reckless Decision
I move quickly, my hands shaking as I gather what little jewelry and money I have here, the most is in a Safe...
I don't have time to think. I don't have time to hesitate. All I can think about is Ami.

Arslan stirs slightly as I place him in his crib, my chest tightening painfully. How can I leave him?

Tears well up in my eyes. My heart screams at me to stay, to run to Zayan and tell him everything. But my father's words echo in my mind. I have to rescue her!

"If you want your mother safe—"

I wipe my tears and press a trembling kiss to my son's forehead.

Asma is sitting in the living room when I approach her.

"I just need to step out for a bit," I say quickly, forcing a small smile. "Just some shopping."