Bury Thy Aarfah -Short story by Dr. Iman Hanif
Part 1:
“Aarfah glances at herself in the mirror. Her mind was exhausted from listening to the non-stop chatter between her inner self and her external character lately. “Have I lost it? or the world has turned against me? Was obeying abba a wrong decision? What have I done that I deserve this from my husband?” Aarfah breaks down looking at herself. For she had no one to actually feel for her or understand what she was going through. They say, one can never recover from the trauma, when the soul cries by itself.
Aarfah is a young muslim woman who hails from Bangalore, India. She was the apple of her father’s eyes, and the fifth in succession after her four siblings. Coming from a typical Pathaan family, she knew her morals and basic limits, as she was a well brought up woman. She finished her medicine from a well-known college in Bangalore and it turned out that, she had become more self-reliant and independent even before her sisters did. After staying in the hostel for 5 years of her life, she had seen quite a lot to take up most of the challenges, God had set her on a voyage beyond she could imagine.
Aarfah is a graceful and lovely woman, known for her poise and elegance. She is also highly skilled as a doctor and has many other feathers to her cap, apart from being a good daughter, a mom and a doctor. Owing to her eclectic personality she always received compliments from her co workers and relatives for her efforts to give nothing but the best for the welfare of other people. Aarfah took up radiology after she completed her medicine, and she was known as a perfectionist in delivering her work with utmost care. However, she never showcased any signs of arrogance, and always spoke politely to everyone. Probably because deep down she was a spiritual and happy person.
Aarfah felt blessed when she went to hostel and made it to a great college in her state. She became even more cheerful when she stepped her foot into the world of medical practice. Aarfah loved her parents dearly and she used to wait for her father to arrive every month at the hostel gate, just so she could rest her face on dad’s shoulder and share her stories with him. One such day when her father arrived to her college to check on her, she told him, “Abba, thanks for making me a doctor. Abba Mujhey aapkey liye bahut kuch karna hai abba.(Dad I want to do so much for you).To which her father replied,“Tu kareygi beta, thhoda kaam seekhley baba.(You will do it my child, just learn the job well darling) said her abba to her. That was the love this princess got from her father. Little did her father know, god had other challenges written in her fate, and how strong she had to make herself to face them.
6 years later, Aarfah is married to Mr.Zain, a training manager and they also have a 5 year old son. Her father had passed away recently and she is feeling insecure, while so many things are going on simultaneously in her life, Zeeshan her son keeps her functioning normally.
It was a hot summer afternoon and Aarfah was spending some time with her son in the drawing room of their 2 bedroom apartment in Mumbai. Zeeshan was the apple of her eyes, and Aarfah adored him more than anything in this world. Her mom in law, ‘Zaida’ a 65-year-old lady is sitting quietly in the corner, and is randomly switching the TV channels in the afternoon.
Aarfah : “Common Zee, don’t push the spoon away its your favorite mashed potatoes and mushroom sauce, chalo, eat fast baby”.
Zeeshan runs around the house, wearing the tiny spiderman’s bib. He stops and smiles at her thinking he is annoying Aarfah.
Aarfah : “Ohhh, there goes spiderman, running away from his mamma, and mamma runs faster. Wooo…. And Spiderman finishes a whole circle to come back to mamma and open’s his mouth wide . hahaha”
Aarfah makes it a point she feeds her son herself once everyday, before she leaves for her hospital duty. Just to make sure her bond remains strong with her only child. There is so much grief in her heart, she could even pour it out to anyone. She tries to smile and feed Zeeshan in the mid afternoon, when suddenly her mother in law speaks to her.
Zaida: “You know Aarfah, you are the most patient woman I have ever come across in my entire life”.
Aarfah: “Why do you say so maaji?”
Zaida : “I heard him last night, he was yelling at you and you were just not retaliating. The belt marks on your shoulder, are pretty much an evidence, you had to go through another episode of his horrific mood swings”.
Aarfah: “Thats Okay maaji”.
Zaida: “That’s not okay, I feel so let down as a mother. I always felt I raised him well. Don’t know where did I go wrong. But as a single mom, I tried my best to inculcate respect for women in Zain, still he went out of hand.”.
Aarfah: “Ma, he’s my husband and its okay.”
Zaida: “But he’s an abuser and a bloody narcissist. Look at these marks on your right shoulder”.
Aarfah: “Everything’s going to be okay, very soon”.
Aarfah tries to hide her wounds from the quarrel she had with her husband Zain, a day before. They were discussing a trivial matter about his office work and Aarfah just gave him a small advice, for which he got so angry at her. Aarfah was made to shut up, by belting her for 5 minutes, as she always gave him the Leeway space to hurt her and never commanded respect from day 1.
Moral for chapter 1: Set the tone with your spouse at an early stage of marriage. The man loses respect when you never set your standards from the beginning.
Part 2:
Aarfah’s husband Zain walks in at night after a long day, throws his shoes and socks in different directions, in the drawing room. Untying the knot on his tie, he sits down on the thick couch.
Zain: “So, did you follow up with the tenants for the monthly rent?”
Aarfah: “I did , since morning I’ve been on it”.
Zain: “No, you haven’t. I bet you were running after that pest. You and your son”.
Aarfah: “He’s your son too darling”.
Zain: “Yah, I hope so”. (Sarcastically)
Aarfah: “What does that mean? You can’t just say anything like that. We’ve been married for over 6 years, and I do everything for the sake of our family’s wellbeing. How can you say he’s not your son even on a lighter note?. Aarfah losing her temper, while Zain cheerfully passes the sarcastic comment.”
Zain: “Yah, go get your dad’s share. That will help our wellbeing”.
Zain making funny faces at her.
Aarfah: “He made me a doctor, what more can I ask from him. I am definitely going to build a good practice very soon”.
Zain: “I need to see the color of money. I don’t want to hear your stupid affirmations. I will this… I will that”.
Aarfah: “Okay, so do you promise me, if ever we have everything, you will treat me and Zeeshan well?”
Zain: “Maybe, maybe not”. He yawns and gets into the shower.
Zain: “Now shut up and go. Make some tea for me”.
Aarfah was trying her best to calm him down, using soothing words, but every time she did, her pursuits went in vain. This man couldn’t look at her in any other way, apart from perceiving her as a victim. Zain initially liked Aarfah for her feminity and thought she will come with a lot of goodies for him. But as she was the fifth daughter of the house, all her father could afford was their wedding. As time passed she realized, she had not made a wrong decision to tie the knot, but she had chosen the wrong man.
Zaida overheard her son’s conversation with his wife says,
Aida: “Hey watch your mouth. Why are you behaving this way to her.”
Zain walks away from the room, ignoring his mom.
Moral of Part 2 : Never marry a man without knowing his true character before the wedding. Never blindly go by what your parents say, unless they do a background check, never say yes to a matrimony.
Part 3:
Aarfah and Zain having a casual conversation before bed in their room at night. Zeeshan their 5 year old is sleeping in the room next door and Zaida is still awake, exploring various TV Channels.
Zain: “You know I see this young woman in office everyday. She works in the other department. She is in her late twenties, and extremely attractive”.
Aarfah: “So why do you tell me about her?”
Zain: “She wears clothes to expose her body so much that, every man in office keeps staring at her cleavage, and I’ve heard them making inappropriate jokes about her too”.
Aarfah: “So do you join them?”
Zain: “In what?”
Aarfah: “In making inappropriate jokes, about her body”.
Thud, comes a tight slap on Aarfah’s face, leaving her cheeks red and inflamed. She falls down from the bed letting out a scream. He says, “Next time watch your tongue, why will I stare at some other lady wearing haram clothes? Huh.”
Zaida walks in hearing the sound of Aarfah’s scream.
Zaida: “Why do you hit her everyday?”
Zain: “She’s my wife, I’ll do anything I want with her. You go and sleep, for heaven sake”.
Zaida: “This is not the way you treat a woman. This is toxic behavior not masculinity, if that’s what you think”.
Zain: “Ok, now go. Otherwise….”
Zaida: “Otherwise what? You need to look at yourself from other people’s perspective. I didn’t raise you to be a monster.”
Zain: “But that’s how dad treated you. And I follow my father”.
Zaida: “Oh Please, don’t make that mistake. You are an educated young lad. He was from the old school of thought. I was always unhappy with him. You saw what he did to me, when he was alive”.
Zain: “That’s okay. You were also not that great for a wife. Do not try to teach me”.
Zaida: “Are you okay beta?” asks her mother in law to Aarfah stroking her head on the top.
Aarfah is in tears, stands up slowly ,and tries to get her mind under control. She suddenly remembers her mom’s words to always respect her husband, like her mom did to her father.
Aarfah: “Yes mom, don’t yell at him. It’s okay, I shouldn’t have asked him what I did”.
Zaida: “Why do you cover up for him? Just look at what he just did to your face. It is red now”.
Aarfah: “Nothing happened ma. Please relax”.
Zaida: “Don’t try to hide this pain Aarfah, I know exactly how you feel”.
Zain: “Now you heard her say nothing happened. Go and sleep old lady”.
Zaida: “Don’t do this to the poor child. She is such a nice mother to your son, and a lovely wife”.
Zain: “Yah, a parasite who eats for free. She doesn’t have the right to talk to me this way. I’m the one responsible for everything in this house”.
Zaida: “So that’s the thing, you want her to earn more than you, is that it? Zeeshu still needs his mother. Can’t you see her family has also supported in my chemotherapy. What more do you want? Aarfah cannot over load herself with a bigger designation at the moment. She takescare of me, Zeeshan and also goes for the job.”
Zain: “Maybe we could leave Zee at the daycare, and she could keep a maid to look after you. Then she will be able to work full time, and help me save more money.”
Zaida: She is working as a freelance consultant. You still treat her like a doormat”.
Zain: “Her dad could afford a whole clinic while he was alive. Ask her to go get her fair share of inheritance from her mother now”.
Zaida: “Stop! I’ve not given birth to a handicap, that you demand for stuff from your father in law”.
Zain: “Its high time you mind your own business mom. Remember I am going through so much with all your Cancer treatment, and the expense just doesn’t get lesser. At this rate, we wont able to afford a good lifestyle ever. She needs to work harder”.
Zaida: “Oh really, so you are going to destroy Aarfah because of this. Common, you can do better than that”.
Zain: “ Okay, now don’t go on venting about things which you need not worry about. I will find a solution to this. “says zain staring at his wife, trembling in the corner of the room.
Moral of Part 3: Never advice a narcissist, or take advice from such a person either.

Part 4:
Aarfah had a very good mentor called Dr.Janice., a lady of high ethics,morals and principles.Janice cared a lot about all her students, but she liked Aarfah for her conduct and methodical way of completing tasks.
One day Dr. Janice invited Aarfah for the reunion of their college after four years. It was a nice lunch she had organized at her beautiful seaside villa.
Dr.Janice is a famous Neurologist in Mumbai, and is also an amazing mother,for she could read people’s minds, like a musician could predict the next note to be played by his orchestra. So following the gathering that day …..
Dr.Janice: “It’s so good to see you Aarfah”.
Aarfah: “Yes Dr.Janice, I’m so glad I could come for the reunion party. It’s really sweet of you to have invited me”.
Dr.Janice: “Aarfah is everything alright? Why do you look so lean and gloomy. It’s as though someone has taken out the spirit from you, and your spark is going”.
Aarfah : “Well, it’s the regular stress from parenting. I will be fine”.
Dr.Janice: “No, I can see there’s a lot going on from your eyes. Why are you suppressing it? Come with me”.
She takes Aarfah to one side of the banquet hall, that was arranged for the party.
Dr.Janice: “So how’s the little one doing?”
Aarfah: “Yeah, he’s growing up fine. A lovely child, who keeps me going”.
Dr.Janice: “And what about your husband? The last time I saw you both, he seemed to be a very manipulative and envious of you. I remember you left the dinner even before we served the desserts. And what are these marks on your shoulder and face. I’m sure these are not rashes, now don’t lie Aarfah.”
Aarfah kept quiet for a while and looked around thinking how she could change the topic. But somehow, she could not contain her emotions, and burst into tears. She looked away from Dr.Janice and tried to hide her face.
Dr.Janice: “I knew there is a problem, he wasn’t treating you well that day and there was something fishy about him”.
Aarfah couldn’t stop crying Dr.janice gives her a big hug and passes the tissues from her purse, so she can wipe her face.
Aarfah: “I don’t know Dr.Janice, I’m doing beyond what I can, to keep things together, but he just does not stop abusing me. I never speak a word to my siblings and mother because, I know if I do, I will have to leave the house as they will never accept this behavior from him. Where will I go with Zeeshan then, to my sister’s houses.’No’. I have no money to even hire an apartment”.
Dr.Janice: “Oh my dear, I am so sorry it has gone to this extent”.
Aarfah: “He seems like he enjoys humiliating me. Although everything at home is moving smoothly, he makes it sound like I’m doing nothing. Looks like he enjoys this commotion between the time he starts to victimize me and feel the fear in my voice. It is a way he can feed his ego and feel superior about himself”.
Dr.Janice: “My dear, you can’t change a man who is a born narcist. The first time I saw you on stage with him, I sensed it, you both were not meant to be”.
Aarfah: “It was the circumstances. My father was unwell and I had to make a decision to get married while he was alive”.
Dr.Janice: “Well, that is the wrong reason to get committed my dear. The only reason a man and woman should be together is ‘love’“.
Aarfah: “He charmed me into it, when he came to see me the first time. Seemed so caring and he said the same words I was always wanted to hear from my man”.
Dr.Janice: “Okay, just let go of the past ,Aarfah”.
Suddenly there was a personal announcement from someone, to gather everyone in the garden lawn and divide them into two teams, for a Karoake. The excitement grew in the party. Aarfah was finally happy and cheering for her team in a few minutes. She sang a few songs too, to win her friend’s heart. Suddenly she noticed her college crush. The man she fell for secretly in college was called Ashfaque and today he looked absolutely stunning and pricey.
He had changed so much and seemed like he was also trying to grab her attention by standing close to her while singing. After all the fun and frolic they went in for the soft drinks…He comes upto her and greets her .
Ashfaque:” Salaam Aarfah! How are you doing? I see you gained a lot of weight and looking so lovely”.
Aarfah trying not to stare right into his eyes and giving him a casual look, replies back.
” Salaam Ashfaque! It feels so good to see all of you come here after so long. I was going through so much of stress and seeing you made my day”. She smiles wide.
Ashfaque: “How about your practice? And I heard you got married to a very handsome man and now a mother to a little boy”.
Aarfah: “Okay, so you’ve been asking about me ”. Aarfah glows as she smiles differently.
Ashfaque: “You see, we always exchanged some kinds good vibes in college. But I didn’t push it too far as Sana was always around”.
Aarfah: “Oh yeah, You two do make a great couple”.
Ashfaque: “Correction, we did”.
Aarfah: “Why what happened? I thought you got engaged and were about to…”
Ashfaque: “That’s when things changed, she started demanding too much. I could not keep up with her expectations. You see, I don’t like being questioned too much. Yet I like to have a family”.
Aarfah: “Oh, so you mean you are still single. Aarfah sounded happy and she regretted it”.
Ashfaque: “Hmmm.”
Aarfah: “Don’t worry, If ever I find a good match for you, I will surely let you know”.
Ashfaque: “There is someone I’m looking at, since a very long time. I just hope she comes to me. Ofcourse, it needs some kind of miracle, for it to happen now”.
Aarfah: “Hey, tell me who is it?”
Ashfaque shies away and bids everyone goodbye. He keeps blushing looking at Aarfah. Ashfaque was a practitioner with his own practice in the heart of a busy market area in Mumbai. He also owned two other businesses. He was known as the casinova of his college in those days. Aarfah on the other hand was known to be from a middle class family , highly intellectual and hardworking girl. She kept a very low profile and was focused on her studies all the time.
However, today he could see Aarfah was not the same like before. She seemed so well groomed ,beautiful and charming to his eyes.
As Aarfah walks away from the crowd to say farewell to everyone.
Dr.Janice: “How many years have you been married you said?”
Aarfah: “6 years Ms. Janice”.
Dr.Janice: “And how old are you?”
Aarfah: “I’m 32 now”.
Dr.janice: “My child, I just want to tell you that, in 6 years if you don’t have things under control, then you will never have it forever. Don’t waste your life with him”.
Aarfah: “What do you mean?”
Dr.Janice: “See I’ve been married twice Aarfah. And after all these years, I know one of two things”.
Aarfah: “Okay, whats that”.
Dr.Janice: “A man who constantly loves to see you in pain and gives you tears, is not the man you want to be serving, in the last days of your life”.
Aarfah: “But I have spent so many years trying to build a home. My son is 5 years old now, and he understands the tension between us”.
Dr.Janice: “He is also watching the way Zain treats you. Don’t you think that is effecting him otherwise”.
Aarfah: “You are right, I never thought about it. I always hear Zain telling his mom he behaves this way, as he saw his father illtreating her. His misdemeanor comes from his father, so the same can happen to Zeeshan. Says Aarfah, with a deep realization.
Dr.Janice: “Ah there, you can see, what am I trying to tell you. I have no intention to see you separated. The outcome of a bad relation within four walls of a room, is always bad. You can’t expect any good vibes being transmitted to your son, if it’s going to continue like this”.
Aarfah: “So how do I move on?”
Dr.Janice: “That is something you need to think, once you make up your mind to live for yourself. A strong mind will never go back and forth. You need to bury the old Aarfah , and talk ,think and act like a new person”.
Aarfah: “You mean to say, stop playing a victim?”
Dr.Janice: “Exactly, That’s what I meant. It’s painful to let go of your old demons. Your sensitivity, timidness and sacrificial nature are the demons in your case which will destroy you”.
Aarfah: “I never thought these attributes are the ones which have bought me down so far. But since you have pointed it out, outrightly Ms.Janice, I should really consider changing myself”.
Dr.Janice: “Life is a thin rope of hope that we hold on to, till we all fall in the dark death pit. You just have one life for yourself. Remember no one has the right to abuse a good soul.Dont give that right to anybody.
“You have the right to breathe freely and live like there is a strong purpose of your existence, think like you have no limits, to do what you really want to do for the world ,dream like every dream is achievable ,talk realistically and such that you are away from hypocrisy ,travel to all your favorite destinations like you have no tomorrow.”
Aarfah’s heart felt heavy again and her eyes started to water. This is what she wanted for herself. Her goodness, her pure soul was dying to break open and do so much more for herself and for the world around. She couldn’t believe what Dr. Janice just said. It made her reminisce the time her father Mr.Ahmed smiled at her plucking mangoes in their yard, when she was 9 years old, and asked her about her ultimate dream.
He said, “Beta, you need not be matured enough to think of what you would like to become as a person. Your ultimate dream comes from the moment god’s angel blows a soul into your body. So tell me, what do you want to do when you grow up?”
She said, “I want to find the real reason why god has put me on earth, abba.” Hmmm, so how do you think you will be able to do that?”
“ I feel, I feel I should keep a strong head and face happiness, pain and failure all of it, without any difference. The more I hold on to these feelings- I will feel weaker. The more I let go- I have the power to move to my next goal in life.”
“Wow, that’s a lot of wisdom for a little lady, like you”. Hahaha, Aarfah smiles, and her abba disappears suddenly as Dr.Janice calls out to her.
Dr.Janice: “You need to first talk to your mother to gather the courage to make a decision about Zain. Don’t do things without family support”.
Aarfah: “I do understand now, I’ve been playing a victim all my life, for no reason”.
Dr.Janice: “The world tries to suppress and get us banished when we are submissive. The more you let people take charge of your life, the deeper you sink into the world of darkness. Stop looking out for people, who love to see you in pain”.
Aarfah: “This is mind blowing. I mean the way I feel right now”.
Moral for part 4: All creations of god are created to be equal. One need not give up on one’s dreams for others to live happily, while you go down. No god would want that, no parent would want that for their child either.

Part 5:
Aarfah comes back home by evening and starts to prepare dinner as usual. But today she feels like, she has woken up from a long night’s sleep. She kept pondering over every word that Dr.Janice told her. Finally, she was not seeking for love, she did not want anyone’s validation , nor she was willing to share her space with anyone. The only person she cared about now, was her son. She knew she would sink or swim through this phase of life. But she did not want to remain here for sure.
Zain walks in with Zeeshan, holding his hand after a stroll in the park as Aarfgah took a day off to go meet her mentor Mrs. Janice. He seemed like he was in a pleasant mood.
Zain: “So how was the reunion afterall ?Anything interesting”.
Aarfah thinking about how her direct answers provoked him to hurt her.
Aarfah: “Nah, it was kinda boring. I missed you both. Nothing much happened except I met some of my college mates”.
Zain: “So I will be traveling overseas next week. Its an important meeting I have to attend with a client in Indonesia”.
Aarfah: “Okay, good luck”.
Zain: “Goodluck… wouldn’t you ask me anything more. Normally you seem to be very inquisitive?”
Aarfah:” I know you aren’t going to like it, if I ask you anything. So, I’ll save us from a fight for today”.
Zain: “So you think I always start the fight?”
Aarfah : “Listen, I’m really exhausted. Please let’s just get the dinner completed and get some rest”.
Zain: “Oh , I see. So you are playing games with my mind now. Pretending you don’t care where the hell I am going”.
Aarfah remains silent. She couldn’t believe it how long she had put up with this man. He can make a sound mind, go crazy within seconds.
Zain continued to blabber on the dinner table, then towards his room. She knew he needed psychiatric counselling, but she never knew how to get him to the doctors.
Moral of part 5 : Never respond to a narcist. They drain your energy. Take good care of yourself.

Part 6:
After dropping Zeeshan to school one morning, Aarfah receives a call from an unknown number.
Caller: “Assalamu alaikum…”
Aarfah found the voice familiar and was trying hard to remember who it was. But she failed. In all the mad rush to various practices everyday, she lost track of the people she met during Dr.Janice’s reunion last week”.
Aarfah: “Walaikum assalam, may I know who is on the line?”
Caller: “Hey its Ashfaque”.Aarfah was taken aback .
Ashfaque: “I know, you must be thinking, why this man now? He giggles.
“I just felt like talking to you after the reunion .I just couldn’t contain myself”.
Aarfah: “That’s okay .Its not a problem if you call”.
She said reluctantly.
Ashfaque: “Remember the patient on whom we had performed our first brain surgery for a spinal injury?”
Aarfah: “Yes, Ms.Haneefa you mean”.
Ashfaque: “She used to visit my clinic every month, since I started a clinic. She passed away last night. I am just coming from her funeral”.
Aarfah: “Oh, Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi Raajioon .(From god come we, and to god shall we return). That’s really such a sad news. What must have been her age?”
Ashfaque: “She was 52-year-old. Her condition kept getting worse after her second fall, we could not do anything more. Her family had accepted it long back. I’m feeling low, thinking of her bright radiant smile.”
Aarfah: “Its all written beforehand Ashfaque, I hope her soul rests in peace”.
Ashfaque: “So where do you go consulting, my dear radiologist?”
Aarfah: “Ah, Just a couple of clinics around my neighbourhood in Vashi, New Mumbai”.
Ashfaque: “That must be pretty hard right?”
Aarfah: “It is ,but I manage my timings according to my son’s study time. I have plans to do more in my career”.
Ashfaque: “How would you like it, if I give you the chance to work in my hospital and the liberty to work at your convenient time?”
Aarfah knew something was cooking in his mind. It was not just to help her situation. He always had a motive ,for the Casanova that he was.
Ashfaque: “Don’t over think, I am not being extra sweet to you. Its just that I was seriously looking for some to take care of my practice for long. While I get some free time to attend to my dad’s business”.
Aarfah: “I shall think over it, Ashfaque. Thanks for the offer”.
Ashfaque: “And also the pay, it’s going to be quite decent, with all your travel expenses covered”.
Aarfah: “Okay, seems like you won’t take ‘no’ for an answer. She giggles”.
Ashfaque: “I will call you on Monday. So, you have three days to make up your mind”.
Moral for part 6: Grab the next best opportunity in times of crisis. It really helps.
Part 7:
Zaida: “Could you get me some hot water Aarfah?”
Aarfah: “Sure maa.”
Zaida: “What is Zain upto?”
Aarfah: “He is probably in the room doing some calculations”.
Zain walks in all of a sudden and pulls Aarfah’s hand and drags her to the room.
Zain: “Did you take a new credit card without my permission?”
Aarfah: “I did, that’s because I was not able to pay off all the bills with the kind of money I make from freelancing.”
Zain: “You should have asked me. We don’t need anymore credit on this family.”
Aarfah: “But you also told me, not to ask you for money.”
Zain pushed her towards the wall and hit her chest with his elbow, slapped her thrice and she was unable to withstand it, and in a few seconds she blacked out .
He did it so quickly Aarfah had no space to even scream for help.
Zain: “Listen to me carefully”, he said pouring a glass of water on her face. “Next time I need you, to ask me before you do anything”.
Aarfah kept herself still, sitting down on the floor, recovering from the pain in her chest .Zeeshan walks in and was shocked to see his mom on the floor. Unable to cry or speak out.
He said, “How could you daddy? What have you done to my mother? “
Zain: “What did you just say? He grabs Zeeshan by his collar and tries to make a violent move. Aarfah stands up and grabs Zeeshan and slaps Zain ”. He lifts his hands again and before he could do anything more Aarfah says.
Aarfah: “Stop where you are. One more move and I’m going to the cops”.
Zain: “What?”
Aarfah: “You heard me right Zain. One more move and I will lodge an FIR on you”.
Zain comes forward to hit her, but she manasges to push him away and carry Zeeshan towards the door and runs towards the lift which was waiting in their floor itself. She runs away with her child, opens the front door and heads towards the parking lot. As she runs down, she find a senior citizen from her building and shouts out, “Save us please.”
Mr.Khanna was a retired army officer living in the neighbourhood, He was somewhere in his 70s, but he was a highly energetic and an influential person.
He looks at Aarfah and the boy trembling behind him, he then looks forward to see Zain coming towards them with a smile.
Zain: “Hey, uncle Khanna, how are you? I’m sorry my wife is playing hide and seek with me today”.
Mr.Khanna in a loud and harsh tone says,“ What do you think you are doing to both of them?”
Aarfah: “He needs to be treated, he’s been very violent lately. I think I have a mild fracture in my ribs after he hit me just now. Please call the police”.
Zain tried to explain and keep calm. But Mr. Khanna knew there was something really bad happening here, between the couple.
Mr.khanna: “Please go inside my house and wait there, while I deal with your husband. My wife must be there cooking Dr.Aarfah. And please don’t worry, I will inform the police and some more people. He needs to be taught a lesson”.
Zain : “Look it’s not what you think uncle. She is lying about the violence”.
Zeeshan: “He’s a monster, don’t believe him. He always hurts mummy.”
Zain: “How dare you talk about your father like this?”
Mr.Khanna: “Now back off Mr. We don’t want any scene here anymore”.
Zain stood there cold as Aarfah walked away with his son.
Moral of part 7: Never tolerate abuse and never fear to raise your voice.
Part 8:
After Aarfah informed her mother Mr. Shahara, about the things that took place lately, Her mom asked her to come back home and file for a legal divorce.
Aarfah refused in the beginning, but later went by what her mother told her. The only fear she had was that, she didn’t have enough to afford Zeeshan’s education and many other things.This made her reconsider her decision. It was a very big risk she was putting her son into by taking his custody. That night Aarfah hardly slept.
Zain kept trying his best to bring her back. During the court’s final hearing of the divorce,Zeeshan was standing close to his mother , confused and scared that he may lose his mother.
Zain : “Listen Zeeshan beta, Don’t listen to your mother. Have faith abba will take good care of you”.
Aarfah: “Yeah, we saw that already”.
Zain: “The hearing will not be in your favour. Do you have any proof of domestic violence against me? And since you don’t have a fixed income, the boy is going to come to me”.
Aarfah: “Well, I think you should just step back Zain. You need to stop bending and manipulating people. The marks on my body serves as a strong evidence that, you are unfit for being a husband ”.
Zain: “Okay, I don’t care if I lose you. I want my son”.
Aarfah: “Lets see .Either way you have lost the game of life in my eyes. I’m going to need a house and a monthly alimony of 50,000Rs from you” .
Zain: “Well, well. High hopes huh”.
Zain: “Don’t even talk about alimony, I’ll prove that I’m broke”.
Aarfah: “What else can be expected for a merciless abuser like you. Neither do you want to live happily, nor do you want to see others happy. Whatever the court’s decision is , I don’t want to see your face again”.
Zain: “No one will accept you after this. A divorced woman never leads a peaceful life in our society. People will use you like a tissue paper in the society. You will know as time approaches”.
Aarfah: “Atleast I want to make sure, I don’t want to be the tissues you use”.
They announce their names, and both stand side by side to their respective lawyers. Aarfah’s lawyer was Mr. Rafi and Zain hired a woman as usual to manipulate on the lawyer itself. Her name was Ms.Seema.
Judge: So what is the primary reason you have filed for a divorce?
Mr.Rafi: It’s a of lack of mutual understanding and misbehavior from the groom’s end.
Seema : I’m sorry sir, the bride has not been cooperative to the family in any aspect.
Mr.Rafi: The man succumb to domestic violence and needs to be condemned for it sir. Apart from that he has not been giving any support for their day-to-day expenses”.
Seema: “Currently, he is under debts for his business and has a lot of mental stress”.
Mr.Rafi: “He’s a very toxic character my lord”.
Aarfah stops the lawyer from publicly humiliating him. Her principles did not allow her to let her lawyer bring him down. Zain was asked to speak in his favour.
Zain: “Sir I did not want a divorce in the first place, I can takecare of her and bring my son up well. It is in her nature to let go, for small fights. Anyways, I have decided to let her move on, if that’s what she wants, however I want my son to stay with me”.
Arafah: “I have opted for a separation”.
Judge: “In that case,what have you decided about your son? Who is going to have the custody?”
Aarfah: “I am taking his custody”.
Zain: “But she does not even have a fixed income”.
Aarfah:” I can takecare of him. I need a fixed income as an alimony”.
Zain: “Sir ,I donot have any money as I don’t have a job. I run a business for which I am in debts. But I promise to provide for my son a good school and he can stay with me, instead of her. I am ready to take his custody. I was never prepared to separate, she initiated it”.
Judge: “Ms. Aarfah, he is ready to take custody of the boy and he has the ability to takecare of the boy alone. I suppose he won’t be able to provide a fixed alimony so we cannot pressurize him to do so”.
Aarfah: “He cannot take the charge of Zeeshan. He is an abuser and I won’t allow my son to come up with him”.
Judge: “Bring the boy to me”.
Zeeshan walks in with a faint smile on his lips. He was a very talkative boy and always loved his mother so much. His face resembled her and he always smiled as his mom taught him many good things. Iike being calm and approachable. She could feel the heaviness in his voice and that became unbearable for her today. Aarfah was always looking out for solutions and this time too, she was thinking of sorting this soon, so her son doesn’t go through a lot of mental trauma. But then things didn’t presumably go the way she thought they would.
Judge: “Hello, young man. What’s your name?”
Farhad: “I’m Zeeshan”.
Judge: “So do you know mamma and daddy have decided to go separate ways?”
Farhad: “I think it’s good, I’m tired of seeing her cry almost every day .I think it’s okay if me and momma lives seperately.”
Judge: “So whom do you choose to go with?”
Zeeshan: “I would like to stay with my father”.
Aarfah:” What? Have you gone crazy?”
Farhad: “Its okay ma.He will not dare to hurt me, he just does that with you. Also,I will always be coming to see you and vice versa. Just go be happy”.
Aarfah: “You are talking too much. Judge saab, Don’t take his words seriously. I know he has been brainwashed by his father. Or he doesn’t even know what he is speaking”.
The whole room was silenced by the emotions coming from the mother for her child. Aarfah could feel her world falling apart. But Zeeshan was not in tears. He knew his mom belonged to him. They were inseparable.
Zain: “Good choice my son”.(whispered Zain)
Aarfah: “No judge saab, Zeeshan is just 6 years old. He does not know the repercussions of his decision”.
Judge: “Okay Master Zeeshan, are you sure you would like to stay back with your dad and grandmother? While mammas allowed to visit you anytime?”
Farhad: “Yes”.
Aarfah bursting into tears and saying, “No beta, I can’t leave you.”
Judge: “Okay, so Ms.Aarfah you will not be taking the custody of the boy as he has made his decision to stay with his paternal family .Mr.Zain kindly takecare to give Ms. Aarfah a monthly alimony of 50,000rs ,this will not be reversed looking at the kind of atrocities she has had to face, all these years because of you. Also, the boy must be taken care”.
Zain’s lawyer: “Sorry sir, But the lady has asked for a divorce not the man. So ideally, he need not pay her any compensation as per the shariah lawe”.
Judge: “There’s no arguement about this, as her son has given proof of them being abused and so she has the right to ask for an alimony, since he changed after marriage. She deserves more than this.”says the judge looking sympathetically at Aarfah. So, I am fixing the monthly alimony as 30 grands a month as the man claims to have no extra income apart from his salary.
Zain’s lawyer: Kindly bring down the alimony amount to 1/4th as the boy and his expenses will be on the father”.
Judge: “Mr.Zain, What is the amount you will be able to pay her every month? “
Zain: “Please fix that as 10,000 my lord. I have to care for my son too”.
Judge: “Aarfah are you okay to settle for this amount?”
Aarfah looking up with her teary puffed eyes. She does not know what to say. The thought of leaving Zee was like suicide and seems like her world was being taken away from her.
Judge: “Having seeing your struggle the boy has made his statement. Lets respect what he has to say. He knows he did be left alone while you go out for work. He knows what it is like to be in your place.Just accept it.”
Aarfah agreed for the amount fixed as alimony. Her mind was always working for the benefit of her son.
Judge: “So we come to a conclusion and from now on you shall be permitted to visit your son three days a week and receive your due share of expense from Mr.Zain. Mr.Zain will take charge of all the expenses of the child as well as provide for him, and he will also be taken for trial in case of any harm caused to him. Mr.Zain this is your first and last warning”.
Zain:” Yes sir. I promise to take good care”.
Judge: Also, the mother will be allowed to meet her son once a week and make video calls or phone calls on the landline anytime she wills.”
Zain: “Sure sir.”
The crowd gradually rosed and left the hall. Aarfah hugged Zeeshan and cried her heart out. Zain felt happy as he saw her breakdown as usual.
Moral of part 8: Women need to be stronger and be emotionally detached to bring out the best for their children’s life. Aarfah knew her son would get effected when she went for work. She knew his paternal grandmother will take good care of Zeeshan, so she had to let go.

Part 9:
After 6 months post divorce , Aarfah was trying to gather herself from all the past events and was missing her son so badly. However, she noticed one thing, she was much calmer, focused and was actually ready to serve people by maintaining a strong head. No one to humiliate, break her and tamper with her self esteem. She started gaining that spark back. Aarfah moved to an apartment at a distance from where Zain lived with her son.
She was moved by the maturity Zeeshan had displayed during the trail and how he took it to his stride and let his mother be free. Nothing much had changed between them, she was always in touch with her son and he was doing perfectly fine. Then one morning…the phone rings and as Arrfah glances the screen of her mobile, she saw Ashfaque’s call coming in…
Ashfaque: “Hello! Hi doc!”
Aarfah:” Assalamu alaikum…Hope you are doing great buddy”.
Ashfaque: “Heard about your separation. I’m really sorry about that:”.
Aarfah: “Never mind. Things are turning in my favour”.
Ashfaque: “That’s cool. So are you still in Mumbai?”
Aarfah: “Yes shifted to a new apartment. Got a good place and mom’s here”.
Ashfaque: “Well, well. You sound so cheerful and relaxed”.
Aarfah: “Yes, sometime we never realize how we let people take over our lives on the name of commitment. I had lost my mind with this man. Now I feel I’m better of single”.
Ashfaque: “What do you mean single? Its single mom right”.
Aarfah: “Well yeah. But my son opted to stay with his father as he thought I may get into another trauma bringing him up. My boy, let me free”.
Ashfaque: “That must’ve been hard for you. Afterall you are such an emotional person”.
Aarfah:” Correction. It shoud be you were an emotional person…”
Ashfaque: “Okay, Very good. The reason I called you is to check, if you thought about my offer”.
Aarfah: “I gave it a thought. I did like to visit your clinic”.
Ashfaque: “Oki doki, so are you free today?”
Aarfah: “Mmm, inshahallah by evening I can make it to your place. But I hope you will be there by half past four”.
Ashfaque: “Ofcourse my dear. I was looking forward to you joining us, ever since I met you at the reunion”.
Aarfah could sense he was trying to get closer and he was actually thinking about her all the while.
Ashfaque: “Awright, so I’ll send you the address and please do come today”.
Aarfah: “I will, inshahallah”.
Moral of part 9: Always tread slowly and wait for people to offer you any position when you know you are too good. This helps to retain your position and you never lose your credibility.
Part 10:
Aarfah left home early after lunch. She used to go for consultations twice a week, but fortunatey today she wasn’t called from any of the clinics. She got dressed in black pants and a pink shirt. She topped it with a pearl bracelet and pendent to look gorgeous. However, her scarf had always covered her beauty and made her look modest. Though she always looked gorgeous, she made it a point no one approached her in any other way other than a doctor.
As she arrived at Ashfaque’s perfectly designed clinic. She couldn’t take her eyes off the beautiful dark blue shiny Lamborgini parked outside.
Aarfah: “Hello, I have an appointment with Dr.Ashfaque. Could you please tell him Dr.Aarfah is here”.
The receptionist was a beautiful east Indian, dressed in a grey uniform. But it was rather too tight and revealing. Aarfah didn’t like her outfit , she thought it must be some kind of tactic to keep the patients entertained, which was not appreciable in Aarfah’s eyes.
Receptionist: “Oh great to see you Dr.Aarfah, sir is in the Xray room just discussing something. He had informed me about your arrival time. Please go straight and turn to the first left after the consultation room”.
Aarfah: “Thank you somuch. See you soon”.
As Aarfah walks in she sees numerous machines kept around the corners of the x ray room . Asfaque was sitting right next to the MRI machine and was trying to make some notes. He seemed to be very eluded and lost in some radical thoughts.
Aarfah: “Woww, woww just look at you. I have never seen you so serious and lost in your thoughts. Is everything okay” .
Ashfaque: “Heyy doc, Thank god you came. I need some help with some MRIs . I wonder how does one assess this ,its so confusing”.
As Aarfah comes close to have a look at the xray. She takes a step forward to Ashfaque to sit down and watch the monitor closely. This is when he gets to see Aarfah closely. He regretted how he never took notice of her in college when she was his junior.
Aarfah: “This is a clear and shut case of cerebral contusion. There is heamorrhage within the hemispheres, subdural heamatoma on the left and a left skull fracture. What kind of intervention have you thought of?”
Ashfaque: “Nothing as yet. The patient was bought to us this morning. So you are sure right? Asks Ashfaque.”
Aarfah: “ Affirmative Dr.Ashfaque. Surgery is a must as intracranial pressure is increasing due to the heamorhage”.
She handed the X ray back to him and smiled.
Asfaque felt rather peaceful in her company and gradually they walked towards his consultation room.
Asfaque: “So how about some coffee?”
Aarfah: “After sometime. Show me your clinic”.
After taking a stroll around all the 8 rooms and the OT they came back and settled in the consultation room.
Asfaque: “So when are you planning to start working here?”
Aarfah showcases an absolute calmness in her body language, she goes into deep thoughts,not too excited but present in the moment. She suddenly comes to a conclusion and says “I can join you from tommorow”.
Ashfaque smiles and extends a warm welcome to her, shakes hands and says :Thank you doc! ”
Moral of part 10: When you know your expertise, employers will thank you for joining them. Instead of you thanking the employer.

Part 11:
The days move swiftly. Today was the day of the week when she meets her son at school, and enjoys seeing him play football with his friends. She even feeds him good food.
“So tell me, how did it go yesterday? Is daddy treating you well?”
Zeeshan: “He better treat me well. Hahaha”
Aarfah smiles as he reminds her what the judge told his father in the court the other day. Aarfah feels so proud of this little boy she raised.
Aarfah: “You should be careful always. Don’t say anything to irritate him. He will do everything as long as he does not get disturbed”.
Zeeshan: “He wont ma. He has started to realize what he did to you was absolutely horrendous. How could he do this to you for so many years”.
Aarfah: “Lets not talk about it?”
Zeeshan:” I would never let anyone do that to me, mom.”.
Aarfah:” Its just that I was worried about seeing this day. When I’m all by myself .I wasn’t prepared to stay alone”.
Zeeshan:” But having him close to you, you were more lonely”.
Aarfah: ” You need to stop thinking of mamma now. Just don’t worry anymore. Let me know if you want something beta”.
Zeeshan: “I want ma. Please be happy from now on.”
Aarfah: “Okay darling. Come I will drop you home”.
Aarfah and Zeeshan walked down the street singing songs and holding each other’s hands. Aarfah was clearly disturbed and Zee could see it on her face.
Farhad: “Ma, what happened now ?”
Aarfah: ”I feel distant with you. Now that we live in seperate houses, and I’m scared to lose you”.
Zeeshan: “Nothing’s going to change. When I grow up I am going to take good care of you momma. Just the way you did”.
Aarfah: “Okay my love”.
Moral of part 11: Children grow up better and are normal when they donot see two parents fighting on a daily basis. It is the everyday fights that disturb the mental harmony of a child. One can be normal, ony if there is peace within the four walls of the house.

Part 12:
Aarfah arrives at Ashfaque’s clinic at 9am.
Aarfah: “Good morning doc”.
Ashfaque: “Good morning dear. So let me brief you about your roles and area of requirement”.
As Ashfaque completed his instructions Aarfah felt overwhelmed how professionally he put down all the points for her. He was really an amazing man.
Ashfaque: “So if you have any queries, do contact Ms.Toulina in the reception”.
Aarfah: “Sure”.
Ashfaque: “Apart from being colleagues we also have another side of life to takecare”.
Aarfah: “I’m sure we are doing well in all other areas”.
Ashfaque: “Are you sure? I just wanted to ask you out for dinner sometime”.
Aarfah: “Oh, that’s something which I would not be able to do”.
Ashfaque:” I didn’t mean to intrude into your privacy. Just find you interesting and want to know you better.”
Aarfah: “I have just come out of this horrifying trial, a few months ago. Please don’t even attempt something like that”.
Ashfaque: “Are you scared of me?”
Aarfah: “Not really, I am kind of intrigued by your personality. I mean what kind of a doctor would ask his receptionist to show her cleavage to all. Is that a standard practice?”
Ashfaque:: Why whats wrong? She looks pretty and if it helps my clients relax while they are waiting, then be it”.
Aarfah: “You can’t just use a woman to keep people engaged. That’s not the way to think.
Ashfaque: “Women are made to entertain and takecare of men. Otherwise, God wouldn’t have made them so beautiful”.
Aarfah: “Okay, now I see you haven’t changed a bit since college. How could you tag a woman as entertainment?”
Ashfaque: “Look, I didn’t force her. She agreed to it. If there is no resistance from her, then why should we worry about it. Common, dont be so patriarchicial and old school of thought.”
Aarfah: “Is that what you do all the time? Categorise women as available or not available.”
Ashfaque: “No don’t say that. I’m not one of those.”
Aarfah: “Isn’t your brand more than enough to get patients lined up? You don’t need to use such cheap measures, to keep people coming here.”
Ashfaque: “You did know I have to pay enormous number of taxes and utility bills every month ever since I opened this clinic. Don’t you?”
Aarfah: “Indeed we need to market the practice well, but not at the cost of a woman’s pride. I just don’t like the feel at the entrance, that’s all.”
Ashfaque: “Okay, now stop talking about that. So what are you upto after work?”
Aarfah: “I will be going back home to get a good night’s rest.”
Ashfaque:” How about we go grab some food together and watch a movie.”
Now she knew what was running in his mind. She felt awkward but somehow managed to subtley say ‘No’.
The day got over peacefully and so did many days pass by without any hiccups at his hospital.
Moral of part 12: You don’t need to sell your pride, to keep a job. Never take a flirt seriously.
Part 13:
Its been about 11 months and now she realized she is getting stagnated and the pay was not too great here. Aarfah had always wanted to pursue her Master’s abroad, and she is doing her research since one week.She approached a few banks for a study loan and also thought about how she could accommodate her mom in her pursuit to go for Masters to the United Kingdom. This morning tried to talk to her mother about it.However, her mom had a different opinion.
Aarfah: “Maa, I need to start applying for colleges in the UK for the coming fall.”
Shahara : “Baccha, You are already so educated, now why study more? And from where does this moving abroad idea come from?”
Aarfah: “You forgot I have to still complete my Masters. That will help me get better placements and one day I can have a clinic abroad.”
Shahara: “I’m sorry, but Zeeshan needs you to be here till he grows up.”
Aarfah: “I get your point. But don’t you think with a better income, I will be able to give my son a good life?
Shahara: “Couldn’t you think of anything closer, within your country?”
Aarfah: “That’s the whole point. I am not able to save money here .I need to move out. Doctors have a very nice lifestyle and earn lots in the UK.”
Shahara: “Ok, what ever it is sweetheart. Don’t make hasty decisions, so you lose out everything. Imagine what will happen if you don’t see your son frequently. Zain is going to spoil his life, I hope Zeeshan will not be like his father.”
Aarfah: “Hmm, this is the fear which stops most women from moving forward in life. Times have changed mother. Can’t you look at it with a new perspective.”
Sharaha: “What are you trying to say?”
Aarfah: “I’m trying to tell you that if I have a better life to offer Zeeshan, and a better place for him to settle, he will opt to stay with me once he is an adult. Children aways stay with the one’s who are more advanced then them.”
Shahara:” As far as I can think, boys take on to the people who stay with them. He is being intoxicated with negative feelings towards you, I donot think he will want to be with you in the UK. His mindset will be different when he turns 18.”
Aarfah: “Well then, be it. I’m ready to take the risk. I can’t restrict myself thinking about who will stay or not. One day, this is what will make me regret. And Ma- I donot want to regret, that I did not even attempt to make a difference”.
Shahrah: “What about the finances? The time you need to spare to clear your exams?”
Aarfah: It’s called NEET and PLAB, mother.I know I gotta clear them.
Shahara knodded her head as she continued making the dough for the morning rotis.
Aarfah knew her mom believed in her daughter somuch, and she knew she won’t give up on her dream, once she makes a decision.
Shahara: “Remember one thing bacha, Your confidence comes from the fact that, you had good parents. Parents who remained grounded in one house, until you finished your studies. While your baba was busy making money, I looked after you and your grandma. But in your case, your son has opted to stay with his father. You have all the chances of losing your son. Later after you move out don’t regret, if he gets emotionally distanced from you.”
Aarfah smiled and replied “I believe in my son and we share a bond beyond anyone’s contemplation. He knows from the inside, he is an integral part of my life”.
Shahara nods again reluctantly and gives Aarfah a hugg with a grunt.
Moral of part 13: Think in a different perspective. The future is yours if you believe in your convictions.
Scene 14:
Ashfaque was walking past the x ray room, while his eyes stopped at Aarfah. He had been holding back since a year now, to confide his feelings to her. But he as usual was not in a hurry, as he had other flings to keep him going. He was always a free bird and knew Aarfah was hard wired. But now he felt time is slipping from his hands, and he needed to do something, before its too late.
Aarfah: “Hey, how are you today Ashfaque?”
Ashfaque: “Not too bad .You look great today . anything special.”
Aarfah wasn’t blushing at all but felt happy, as very few people complimented her everyday.
Aarfah: “Hmm, you too always looking good.”
Ashfaque: “How do you manage to stand apart from all the women, in terms of dressing.”
Aarfah: “I stand apart because I dress for myself. Not for the sake of the world.”
Ashfaque: “That pretty much explains your mindset at the moment. I see most women wear loud colors these days, but you instead opt for dim pastel shades, to avoid getting noticed. But invariably you get noticed for your lovely features.”
Aarfah:” Hmm, when you stop looking out for people, people look out for you.”
Ashfaque: “I’ve been looking for an opportunity to tell you something.”
Aarfah: “And whats that?”
Ashfaque: “I’m in love with you, Aarfah.”
Aarfah froze and said, “ Whatttt?”
Ashfaque: “No seriously. I’m in love with the way you conduct yourself, your knowledge, your presentation, the way people respect you, and I could go on all day.”
Aarfah: “Well, since when.”
Aarfah was cold in her expression as she knew the kind of man he was. He was quite the casinova, a heart breaker and this move had an ultimatum.
Ashfaque on the other hand was amazed by her reaction. Women would go crazy for him, with the kind of wealth and attitude he had. Some of them would just throw themselves at him, in a matter of seconds. But Aarfah, got the better of him. She knew what she wanted in life, and only she could get it for her.
Aarfah: “I really appreciate it that…”
Ashfaque: “Oh, not that tone again. I’m actually proposing you for marriage. Please….”
Aarfah: “See , I feel I understand you better than you know yourself. Its not the love. It’s the feeling of not getting my attention every single day, that’s hurting you . You had always succeeded in every relationship you asked for. I mean you got what you want from women. But for the first time, a woman has kept you away and you are able to see the conviction in my eyes.”she says sitting down like a boss lady.
“I am pretty much focused on my work, and I believe such distractions are of no use.”
Ashfaque: “These are not distractions or just for entertainment. I actually want you in my life.”
Aarfah: “I cant tell you anything right now. His is too awkward for me and it is just not the right time, Ashfaque.”
Ashfaque: “Please my dear, for my sake .Don’t say no”.
Aarfah: “But you are not the one who I picture as a husband yet. Also my dream is to go overseas for my higher studies and establish myself there. I need to do something, for the sake of my son.”
Ashfaque: “Okay, that’s really nice. But I’m giving it all to you even without having to go through all that hardwork.”
Aarfah steps back as Ashfaque comes closer and holds her face with both his palms. As he comes close, she feels weak in her knees and starts to melt. But suddenly his aura, his masculinity reminds her of Zain, her ex husband.
Aarfah: “Stop!”
Ashfaque: “Why whats wrong? Did I hurt you?”
Aarfah: “No, you may think this is weird. But I’m in a happy space now. I donot want to experience any of these sickening emotions anymore. Aarfah Slowly withdraws herself from him.”
Ashfaque: “I do get your situation and understand your circumstances. That is another reason why I want to marry you.”
Aarfah: “I’m sure you do. But I can’t put myself in the same cage of commitment again and again.”
“I don’t want to spend the rest of my life building others dreams. I know I cant be single all my life, but I am not willing to go with this kind of a thing at the moment. If you want to commit to me, leave all this and fly with me to the Uk, so I persue my masters.”
Ashfaque looks at her, like she has absolutely lost her mind.
Ashfaque: “You know I cant do that. I’ve built my empire here. You should be elated, I am offering you to be my wife.”
Aarfah: “ I can’t get carried away .I know one of the two things after suffering for so long Ashfaque, If ever I get married again, I have to be strong in terms of income, career and position.”
Ashfaque: “I don’t get you.”
Aarfah: “When I was with Zain the only thing that brought me down was my dependence on him. It was me, who put myself in a state of vulnerability.”
Ashfaque: “Just calm down. I mean to give you a good life. I am a gentleman and I don’t want your money or power to respect you. I respect you the way you are.”
Aarfah:” I totally respect your feelings. But If I leave my dream halfway, I don’t think I will be happy with you. You just want someone to run your hospital. And I am the best person you can trust at the moment, so you are trying your luck.”
Ashfaque: “From one angle that maybe true, But its also about my feelings for you.”
Aarfah stands up, takes her belongings and starts to walk away towards the door.
Ashfaque:” Wait, where are you going?”
Aarfah: “I quit. I have to resign today. Kindly follow up with the HR for the formalities after my resignation.”
Ashfaque: “No, please don’t leave the job because of this . You need it badly.”
Aarfah: “It is high time we women claim our position in the society. I don’t need to marry or sleep with the CEO in order to prove my worth. I think I should just leave.”
Ashfaque: “Why are you behaving like a feminist?”
Aarfah: “There you go again. If you stand on your feet ,take your own decisions, play with women around you. The society calls you successful. But if I want to stand up by myself ,take my own decisions and speak up for myself, you will call me feminist.”
Ashfaque: “You have changed so much. The Aarfah I knew until a few years ago has transformed into a kind of machine without any feelings.”
Aarfah: “Indeed, I buried that Aarfah the day I realized my weaknesses. Thanks for the offer and sorry if I hurt you. Takecare Ashfaque.”
Moral of part 14: Never fall for eye candy or free money when you have the potential to earn it yourself. There is nothing worst than letting your talent whither away, letting your dreams go for a spouse.

Part 15:
Aarfah sort things out all the things for the next few months and got her admissions into the Royal institute of physicians in London. She worked threefolds the time to make her study loan get approved. It was her son who kept her going, as she shared all her dreams with him. “Ma we will be very happy one day for all what you are doing for me .I’m so proud of you mom”. These were the words he told her, as she was leaving to the airport that day. But there was this one person who she needed to thank desperately, before he boarded the flight with her mother.
Aarfah: “Hello Dr.Janice! Hope you are doing good.”
Dr.Janice clearing her voice early morning ,tired after a long surgery she had performed on a patient, a night before.
“Hmmmm, yes darling. I’m doing good. How are things with you? How come you called so early in the morning?”
Aarfah: I am flying to the Uk today to persue my Masters in radiology maam.”
Dr.Janice: “Wow, That’s the best thing I heard in months from you. But are you taking your son along? I know you got separated and all…”
Aarfah: “I will be taking him, as soon as I get established there with a good pay, a house and maybe my own practice. I will make sure things fall in their place, I know it will, for sure.”
Dr. Janice: “Oh dear, you sound so strong and determined to achieve your goals.”
Aarfah: “I know I feel great. I have some difficulties here and there, but I’m proud about my decision .Zeeshan has also promised to stay in touch until he turns 18 and wait unitill I take him with me.”
Dr.Janice: “I’m not sure he will remain the same, when you are away for many years.”
Aarfah: “That’s perfectly fine. He will come if he has to come. I can’t let myself get tied down for anyone now. If marriage has to happen, It will happen anyway, if my son has to join me, it will happen anyway. I don’t want to control things which are beyond my control.
What I can control is mine. And now I have taken total ownership of my life. This is me, this is my happiness.
Dr.Janice: “ So fly away my dear. Go live your life.
Aarfah, Think like you have no limits and do what you really wants.Have a strong purpose in life. Dream like every dream is achievable ,talk realistically and such that you are away from hypocrisy ,travel like a thirsty soul in search of wonders you haven’t unleashed. Go write your own story ,Bury thy Aarfah and write your own story.”.
Aarfah takes off .

-By Dr. Iman
Author and Poet