TITLE: The Silent Lover EPISODE: 12 AUTHOR: Underage He lay on his bed and stared unblinkingly up at the ceiling. Not even the rythmic lapping of the waves could soothe his shattering senses. It seemed impossible that only a short while ago he had been filled with such a delicious feeling of excitement, happiness and a sense of satisfaction. Now all he felt was a deep-rooted gloom. He couldnt even imagine that his own modern broad-minded mother would turn out to be so typical and conservative on the question of his marriage. He simply couldnt believe it. His mother was behaving like a narrow minded, religious fanatic instead of a highly educated professional that she was. His mother had cursed him so much today that he couldnt believe it. Breathing fire and thunder, and making threats he didnt take seriously but which left him edgy and irritable. She had become even angrier and shouted that he will not marry Komal as long as shes alive. He knew any further protest would seem foolish and cowardly and he didnt want her thinking he was either. His mother had made him believe that he was practically one of her family, and her only child but it was becoming increasingly obvious that she was truly selfish when it came to her traditions and favor. Yes, he thought painfully. For his mother, her customs, heritage and traditions were more important than her son, her own blood and flesh. His mind whirled endlessly with questions he couldnt possibly answer. **************** Komal shut herself in her bedroom and called his phone. Aariz picked at first ring. Her heart was pounding so painfully when he came on the line, so much that for a second she couldnt speak. We should forget each other Aariz. Komal said with no preamble as soon as she found her voice. I know its not normal to just walk out from ones life but I cant give you more time. We have to part from this moment. The words burst out like a despairing cry and there was silence for a minute before he said quietly. I know.......you dont have to tell me the story. Aariz said, feeling very much guilty for his mothers reaction. She remained silent. I never expected it even in my wildest nightmares that my mother would turn out to be this crude when it comes to her only sons happiness. Aariz almost cried with pain. She has totally disappointed me. So....what do we do now? She breathed a cold sigh. Should we say goodbye to each other now? No way. His pulse raced. Ive been an obedient son so far but that doesnt make me a coward. He then took a little pause, as if gathering his breaths. I have made the plan. What plan? Id try to pressurize her through my father. He told her determined. What if that didnt work either? She asked in a low tone. Then.... He said firmly. Then, well do a court marriage. For a moment, Komal was shocked to her very core. You mean youd leave your parents? For you...... He breathed. Yes, I can go even far than that. Although, this was not the moment, but his words showered her in a rain of weird satisfaction and possessiveness. Now, its your turn. Aariz said in a deep tone. Try to tell your parents about our decision. What if they dont agree? Komal asked, her voice filled with worried tone. Then..... Aariz took a long, shuddering breath. Then, it would be your choice, whether you want to live with your parents or with me. Dont say that. She cried out emotionally.You know very well that I cant even imagine spending my life without you. I love you Aariz. So do I. Aariz murmured, his voice thick and heavy with affection and feelings. Okay, wed wait and see for a week. Lets see if our parents respect our choice and wish. What if they dont? Komal inquired, her voice trembling because of some unknown fear. In that case..... Aariz made his mind before he said. Id wait for you here. Get back to Karachi and wed do a court marriage. Court marriage! Komal gasped and shuddered at the thought. Okay. She said. I will call you after I talk to my parents about it. She put the phone down straight away, only just hearing his startled exclamation as he rasped out her name, and then she pushed him out of her mind, not out of her heart though. In his part of the world, Aariz had reached a certain decision after sleepless nights. They had to get married at any cost. He couldnt leave her, couldnt afford to lose her at any price. ************ Waiting at the cabin door was the Senior Attendant, a black-haired woman of about 38. As each passenger went by, she gave him or her the ritual farewell. I hope you had an enjoyable flight. Thank you for flying with us and hope to see you again soon. Well....I hope to see you again too. Komal gave her an equally refreshing smile. In a flight to Karachi. She picked up her handbag and followed her mother toward the terminal lounge. Well........ She was back in London. Spring was late that year. The weather had been wet and chilly for weeks; people made their hurried, frowning way to work in Londons crowded streets hunched under umbrellas in the drizzling rain, or gloomily contemplated the weather from indoors, wishing they did not have to go out. Most people were still wearing winter cloths. That morning, Komal was wearing a full-skirted apricot wool dress, which gave a little warmth to her enticing hair and brown eyes, and gave a glow to her fair skin. When she joined her father at the breakfast table, he eyed her with fond pride. You look very pretty----new dress? It suits you. Komal smiled at him. She wanted to tell him now. But she loved her father too much to tell him frankly how she felt. He wouldnt understand; he would be baffled and hurt. Going somewhere special? He asked her as she poured herself coffee, and she wished he wouldnt have given her that hopeful look. Ever since she finished school, he had been waiting for her to get married, and questioning her eagerly about Sikander. Im having lunch with Mawara. She told him. Mawara. He made a bad mouth. She knew her father didnt like Mawara due to her free, out-going and out-spoken nature. Where are you eating? Arif Khan asked, sipping his morning tea delicately. West brooks. Said Komal. She was spreading marmalade on her toast. Her father gave a yelp, his eyes riveted on his newspaper. You know I never give up when I really want something. He said complacently, proud of his own obstinacy. He had a look in his eyes that she recognized, a dreamy yet determined look. Sikander is special, Komal. Youre young, you wouldnt know what he really is. Yes, I know very well what he really is. She almost said to herself. Sikander is just the type I dont like. Handsome fellow, isnt he? She shrugged, I suppose so. If you like the type. You dont? Her father watched her narrowly. Other women seem to like Sikander. Im not other women, Dad. She said coldly. She supposed he only wanted the best for her-------trouble was, his best was Sikander Riza, a man she disliked intensely despite his apparent values being rammed down her throat. She needed to relieve her heart before it was too late. I need to talk to Mum and Dad about Aariz as soon as possible. She thought as she silently ate her breakfast. Mawara, dressed in a business suit with a silk blouse underneath, was waiting at their table when Komal arrived at Penthouse Restuarant on the top floor of West Brooks. Youre always late! She complained as Komal dropped into the seat opposite her. But your dress is worth it. Mawara smiled at her friend. Must be very expensive. Not really. Komal shook her hair care-freely by a gentle push of her left hand. Im not that prodigal. Do you think women are more extravagant than men? Mawara asked thoughtfully. Umm, I suppose yes. Komal said. A man will pay two dollars for a one dollar item he needs but a woman will pay one dollar for a two dollar item she doesnt need. Mawara laughed, nodding her head in agreement. What about you? Komal looked at her from head to toe. Back to trousers? No..... I still prefer hipsters. Mawara told her. Good for you. Komal said, picking up the menu as the waitress approached. Have you ordered? Komal looked at her friends face as she nodded in the negative. Good then, Ill just have melon, club sandwiches and the bean and pasta salad. Pasta? Mawara made a bad mouth. So fattening, dont do it. Komal laughed. Pasta is okay if theres no rich sauce with it. Shall we have soft drinks too? Well mineral water for me. Mawara said plainly. When the waitress had gone, she said, I am sorry I was late, Mawara---I was stuck in traffic. London is hell these days. So is life Mawara said mournfully. Komal gave her an amused look. Is it? What happened now? Broke up again with someone? Mawaras life was full of dramas; it kept Komal constantly entertained. Youre so cynical. Mawara accused. You always think the worst. She said huskily, like she was almost about to cry. Hey, whats the matter? Komal asked again, looking into her eyes, trying to find the answer there. Boss being a jerk? Someone betrayed me. Mawara said with tears in her eyes, then laughed when she saw the look of terror in Komals eyes. Oh stop it! Im not pregnant! Komal laughed weakly, that was exactly what she had feared. What happened then? Komal questioned. You know what men are like. Two dates and they think they can put you to their bed. Mawara cursed under her tongue. Would you mind telling me what exactly happened to you? Well. Mawara sighed aloud, then said, I met this Paki guy online who seemed so silly. He started to tell all those funny dialogues and stuff even on our first chat. Believe me Komal.....he looked so simple.....so plain. And you took full advantage of that, right? Komal asked with a look of anger in her eyes. Haha, ofcourse, whatelse could I do? Mawara winked naughtily. But in the end he did the reverse. She made a crying face. But man....whoa, this guy is one hell of a kisser. So, did he flirt with you or something? You can say that. Mawara said. He asked me, have you seen Britney Spears? I said, ofcourse, many times. Your figure is just like hers . Mawara copied him. But Id forget this one too. I cant stuck myself up to one guy only. She added. Komal flushed angrily. Youre out of your mind. She then bit her lower lip as the waitress brought their first course. She said, forking a piece of melon, looking down. Stop living like this Mawara. Komal said flatly. What do you mean? Protested Mawara. Dont you think a mature man is better than some girl-carzy kid? Komal asked gently, feeling for her childhood friend. Whatever. Mawara said stiffly. Ive no intention of falling in love until Im sure the guy is in love with me, and means it. The waitress came along and whisked their plates away and was back a moment later with their main courses. However, a few making-out sessions in the back seat of cars do make you mature. Mawara smiled devilishly. I hate it when you talk like this. Komal said angrily Mawaras eyes widened as the waitress arrived with club sandwiches, set the plates down and left. There is this new club in North London. Im planning to visit it tonight. Want to go? Mawara grinned and lifted the steaming brew to her lips. You know very well that Ive never been to night clubs. Komal replied in a serious tone. Look Komal, youre going to learn to be less up tight. Youve been to places I can only dream of, and met people I never will, and thats great; but youre back in the good old England now, and you need to try to fit more than you have. Try letting some of those formidable defenses down a little. Mawara lifted her chin and began methodically removing frilled toothpicks from the sections of her sandwich. Komal stopped chewing and swallowed, her eyes snapping. You know, you really should wear something other than jeans to school. Im telling you, university period is the best time youll ever have, and with a body like that you could have them eating off your hand. Do you think of me as one of those who came to college to find a husband? Komal asked, not believing what her friend had just said. No big deal if you give it a try anyway. Mawara said without much care. What do you mean? Komal flashed her an angry look. Didnt you get my email about that guy in Karachi? Komal heard Mawara gasp aloud. Oh...... She let out a longer than usual breath. So were you really serious? Ive never been this serious about anything in my whole life. Komal said confidently. Sorry. Mawara whispered, her eyes sparkling. Okay, Im serious now. She straightened herself up on the chair, changing her facial expressions. Tell me about him. Mawara said evenly. What does he look like? Mawara wanted to know and Komal was quite astonished how clearly a picture of him sprang into her head. Come on, Komal. Spit it out! Handsome, wealth, and hard, cruelly hard. Komal added almost defaintly, her hand trembled a little as she poured coffee from the resturant carafe into her cup. Okay, slow down for a second girl, youre talking way too fast. Now whats this all about again? We met in some wedding and fell for each other instantly. He is daring and bold but still reserved, and this is what I really like about him Komal said as she braced both arms against the edge of the table and leaned toward her friend, glaring. But theres a problem. Komal lowered her voice to a whisper. Umm.....not unexpected. Komal looked back at her silently, as if asking why it was not inexpected. I mean..... Mawara got her message. Most love stories do have some problems. They dont often go so smoothly like we expect them to be. She gave Komals hand a reassuring squeeze. So tell me, whats the problem? He is from a different sect. What nonsense. Mawara flushed aggresively. You cant be serious. Well.... Mawara, for some conservative people, its really a matter of life and death. And who are those conservative people? Mawara asked sarcastically. Parents. Komal said shortly. Umm. Mawara tapped her head back to the chair and a long breath escaped out of her lips. That I can believe. She said, lost in her thoughts now. Some of those typically backward Paki parents really have a thing for stuffs like that. Thats what Im really afraid of. Komal said in a worried tone. Parents are either completely blind, or they dont miss a trick. Mawara murmured. Im really scared Mawara. Komal gasped. I cant imagine myself living without him now. What if my parents object? Hard cheese. Its your life, not theirs, and no one can dictate how you live it. Mawara said mercilessly. Her face softened as she saw the glitter of tears in Komals eyes. She had to change this sensitive topic now. Komal......what about some joint? She addressed her friend, as she brought a long, white cigarette out of her purse. Whats this? Komal asked, her eyes growing wider as she stared at the weird cigarette. Lets try Sheesha today. Mawara winked for the third time today. Sheesha? Komal couldnt understand what she meant. Is it some drug? Oh no.....plain leaves. Nothing else. It soothes your mind. Mawara said as she lit the fore-end of the cigarette. Its fun you know. Something very good to smoke. Id rather keep myself away from your silly things. Komal said repulsively. Can you? Mawara said, exhaling smoke with the words. I guess you probably had a pretty good time back in Pakistan. What the hell do you mean? Komal inquired arrogantly, although she knew Mawara was just joking to make her mood better. The Paki guys must be all over you on dates. Stop it Mawara. Be serious, what do you think I am? You? Mawara repeatedly amusedly. A very attractive girl. You turn heads, Komal. Mawara said seductively. From her expression, Komal could see that she was back to her typical funny mood again, and now it was useless to talk to her about him. After they had eaten their club sandwiches, Mawara drove her friend back home. As they reached Komals house, Mawara threw one last look at her best friend, with wide frightened eyes. If anything happens to you...... Mawara left her sentence unfinished. Nothing is going to happen to me. Komal gave her a confident smile. I just need your best wishes. Yes, the biggest thing has already happened to you! Mawaras features softened as she saw the happy, content face of Komal. Whats the date tomorrow, by the way? Mawara asked suddenly. 14th November. Komal told her, confused at her sudden change of track. Why do you ask? Do you know why 14th November is called Childrens day? Mawara asked very seriously. No, why? Because it is exactly nine months after Valentines day. Komals loud laughter followed her as she pushed down the accelarator. Arif Khan scowled down at the newspaper while he ate his breakfast. There was a tap on the door, he glanced up frowning, Yes? Morning Daddy. She came forward and hugged her father affectionately. A Man of nearly fifty with neat, grey hair and pale brown eyes, he and his daughter had always been close to each other. Enjoying your morning paper? She inquired pleasantly. Enjoying? He laughed, swaying slowly on his easy chair. The morning newspaper are where they begin with Good Morning and then proceed to tell you why it isnt. His funny sentence made her laugh. This is my day, Daddy seems to be in a good mood. She thought, feeling more relaxed. Daddy.....I need to talk to you about something very important. Thats very rare, isnt it? He asked back, his chair still swaying back and fourth. What? I mean its not everyday that you want to talk to me about something important.He smiled teasingly. Oh Daddy. She gave him a fake angry look. Im serious. Alright. I am here. He folded the newspaper and kept it down on the table. Whats the problem, hmmm? Well...... Komal thought for a moment, searching for the right words to begin with. Now or never. She thought. Daddy..... I like someone. She told him at once. His swaying chair stopped for a moment. For the first few moments, he couldnt speak, shocked or suprised? She couldnt tell from his expression. When at last he spoke,his voice was very tired. I knew this was going to happen finally. Why do you think so? Komal asked, keeping her voice low. Because you never trusted my choice. You never gave a single thought to what I liked for you. You mean Sikander? You know very well what I mean. He said harshly. And now youre telling me at this stage when your mother is almost finished with your marriage preparations. Yes..... Komal said, without waiting for him to finish his sentence. Its not my fault because its only now I found someone who is just like my ideal. As for marriage preparations, Im ready for that, but with Aariz Ali ofcourse. As she took Aarizs name, her fathers eyes glared at her in an unpredictable fashion like he couldnt believe she could decide about this most important matter of her life without even informing him. Since when have you started making your decisions alone He asked sacarstically. Daddy, its me whod have to spend life with him alone and only I can decide about it. She said fiercely, saw her fathers startled face and swallowed. What does he do, where is he from? He is from a nice family. He lives in Karachi; his father is a big business man. He averted his eyes for a moment. Is he from our own religious school of thought? He asked in a dry tone. What? Komal couldnt believe he could ask such a thing. Her moderate, modern and broadminded father was asking this question at this stage. No, he is not. She looked angry, stern and deadly serious. I dont want to talk on this topic now. He said icily and unfolded the newspaper again, ignoring her eyes. But Daddy, they are muslims. She protested. Thats not the only thing that matters. He replied back. She didnt say anything, just sat there in a state of complete shock, remembering the famous lines of the famour Pakistani poet, Ahmed Faraz. Only when I saw the weathers style, I realized how quickly people could change. I..... I am sorry Daddy. Ill have to change my opinion about you now. You always taught me that a person should be moderate in everything, including his religion, and we should keep balance between our world and our faith. But now when the time has come..... She couldnt finish her sentence, her voice became husky due to intensity of her emotions. Her father shifted his position on his chair, feeling extremely uncomfortable due to his daughters remarks. And then for the first time in his life, he regretted his statement. Religion had always been something secondary for him only after his worldly preferences, and now, the result was in front of him. He looked at her for a long moment, like he was searching for something in her face. He loved her dearly and couldnt see her sad. Feeling the heat of his eyes on her face, Komal lowered her eyes and began to play with her nails. Then, she heard her father letting out a long breath. Well, your mommy would deal with that honey. He decided, avoiding her eyes, glancing at the newspaper. She got to her feet with an imapatient lunge. This is the most important decision of my life, Daddy and youre not even paying attention to it. No, dont get me wrong. He put down the newspaper and looked deeply into his daughters eyes. Im with you darling, and thats why the only one left is your mother, go and ask her. Cant you convince her Daddy? She asked, her features looking less tense now. Convince for what dear? He asked innocently. I dont even know this guy. I never met him; dont know his family and background. If we live in London, that doesnt mean that we have adopted each and everything of western culture. He looked at her for a few seconds and then added, There are some things to be considered before taking such big step. Like what? She forced out, blinking back her tears. Like family background, community, status....... I told you. She cut in before he could finish. Their status is not less than ours. Financially, they are well-off. Okay, I even leave status.....as money is not important for me more than you happiness. He argued. But as far as the matter of religious community is concerned, that cant be compromised for sure. He stated a matter of fact and then stopped talking. He was at a loss of words, and she filled the silence with her own. Leave it Daddy. She laughed huskily. I know you are saying this only because you want me to be with your ruler Sikander. Go, and talk to you Mom about it. We talk about moderation and call ourselves open minded and modern, yet we are the same from inside; Backward, traditional fanatics. Komals voice began to shake with emotions but she didnt stop. Dont misunderstand......... Im not misunderstanding anything, Daddy. She pushed her feet with force on the floor. Infact, only now Ive understood everything. He waited until he heard the door slam before he returned to his newspaper As soon as she closed the door angrily, she caught her breath for what she saw in front of her. Her mother was there, standing closely to the door. She have heared everything for sure. Mom..... Im sorry. Komal stammered weakly. She was not, in any sense, prepared to face her mother in this condition. Her mother just looked at her with shock, without saying a single word. Turning silently, Mrs. Khan took her first step toward her room, her feet trembling with the height of her patience, her blood pressure reaching its maximum limits. Mom, trust me. I didnt have any control for that. It......it just happened. Komal tried to explain following her mother. Mom....... Silence. Mom, he is very nice. Like me, he doesnt care about this damn Shiyah-Sunni stuff. I really love him Mom, I really love him. I cant live without him. There was no answer. Mom, please say something. Fearfully, Komal reached to take her mothers hand in hers, feeling really scared because of her mothers strange silence, which was a clear indication of some forthcoming storm. Mom...... Do you want an answer? Mrs. Khan asked suddenly, turning quickly to face her. Yes. Komal bit her lower lip. Here it is...... SLAP!!! Her mother lashed out at her, catching her offguard, her fingers leaving a red line across her cheek, and her head snapped back for a second. That was a definite answer from her mother. Her hand had imprinted all five fingers on her soft fragile cheek. Satisfied now? Her mother asked coldly. Throwing one last ignoring look at her, her mother closed her bedroom door at her, leaving her alone in the gallery. Wrenching violent sob seized Komals body as she fell a limp heap onto the cold, smooth floor. Her legs were no longer capable of holding her up. She resisted the urge to scream out her frustration and dropped her head between her knees, sobbing, trying to wash her anger and sadness through her tears. No one sees anything. She thought to herself; no one would ever know what I think or how I feel. Her parents had no concern for her as a person, for her likes or dislikes. She felt that, to them, she was nothing more than a pawn to be used to gain advantage for them as they tried to be elavated to the peerage. She remembered very well that her parents had never told her about Islamic history in detail. Her mother had never told her anything about her own sect. She had never seen her mother wearing the Hijaab, and had never found her father praying five times regularly. But now, they were acting like they were the greatest Muslims in the world. Watchout for episode 13 Target: 5 Likes
Posted on: Tue, 25 Nov 2014 08:26:32 +0000
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