Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wasallam(pbuh) said: When a husband and wife look at each other with love, Allah look at them with mercy.

~Sahih Bukhari 6:19 Tirmidhi

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Qureshi mansion:

The Qureshi family was settled at the dining table having breakfast together. All were eating peacefully except for Faizan, Azaan and Alhaan. They were eating as if they participated in 'Who will eat first' competition. The rest of the family were eyeing the Q-bros who were oblivious of the gazes on them. Even baby Zeeshan stopped sipping from his sipper and was looking at his father and uncles with curiosity.

Mr. Rahman cleared his throat to gain their attention but it went in vain. It was as if those three have their own world in which only they exist. Aiza who was sitting in between Inaraah and Ghazala nudged them asking them to come closer. Both of them leaned towards her.

"Bhabi, Inaraah did we forget to give them food for a week?" Aiza asked. Inaraah and Ghazala giggled at her humour. They again turned towards the three samples who were hopping food like they saw it for the first time.

"It's Shaytaan(Satan) who does the work in haste. And I am sure my sons are not influenced by Shaytaan." Mr. Rahman said in a soft yet firm tone while the three brothers paused and looked at their father who was eyeing them with a questioning look.

"No Abbu." Three of them replied in unison.

"May I know the reason for your briskness?" Mr. Rahman questioned. The Q-bros exchanged glances among themselves silently requesting each other to answer.

"I am waiting." Mr. Rahman said. The ladies were enjoying the nervous look of their husbands. Faizan tried to speak but nothing was coming out of his mouth as he was unable to think of an acceptable excuse.

"Actually Abbu we have some work and we are getting late for it. That's why we are in a hurry." Azaan spoke instead of Faizan.

"Work on Saturday? As far as I remember, I give off to every person working in Qureshi company on weekends and that implies to my sons as well." Mr. Rahman remarked.

"It's not company related Abbu. Actually Cho......" Azaan was about to say everything but Faizan kicked him from under the table while Alhaan glared at him. One more girly habit Azaan have is he cannot keep secrets.

"Abbu one of my friend needs help, so I thought Faizan Bhai and Azaan Bhai can help. It will be easy to finish the work on time." Alhaan replied.

Even though Mr. Rahman wasn't convinced, he let go off the topic. He was very well aware of his sons nature and how these three can build up a mountain of reasons to protect each other.

"That's a good thing but it doesn't mean you do things in  haste. It's a blessing from Allah(swt) to sit and eat with the family. Say Alhamdulillah(All Praises to Allah) and live in the moment." Mr. Rahman explained his sons.

"Yes Abbu. Sorry for the earlier behaviour." Faizan said. Mr. Rahman smiled warmly at his sons and everyone resumed back to eating. However the three ladies were suspicious of Q-bros. They kept on exchanging glances, silently asking each other whether anyone had an idea about it.

After breakfast, Q-bros excused themselves and left to work. Inaraah was about to ask Alhaan but he very keenly escaped from her and so did his brothers. Mr and Mrs. Rahman settled in the living room along with their daughters. They shared their experience with them and not to forget about the funny incidents they encountered during parenting.

"I remember when Azaan was 14 years and Chote was 9 years old. Azaan was a pro in Mathematics and he used to help Chote in solving problems. They had their weekly test as usual. Azaan helped Chote to prepare for the test. And when the results were out, Chote scored full marks while Azaan managed to get passing marks.

He was so scared to tell us about his marks and the 'Ever so intelligent' Chote asked him to hide the test paper. Azaan being scared agreed to it and both hid the test paper in the cupboard. When I went to place their clothes in the cupboard I found the paper and brought it to Rahman Sahab's notice.

When Rahman Sahab confronted Azaan about it, he was on the verge of crying and confessed everything. Faizan went through the test paper and was confused. He asked Azaan whether it's his paper only since the handwriting doesn't belong to him. When we inquired about it with the teacher, she apologized to us saying the test papers got exchanged and that Azaan has scored full marks in his test.

There was another boy with Azaan name in another section and he just wrote his name on the paper. Azaan was so scared that he didn't bother to check the paper nor the handwriting. The other boy was fully aware of the confusion but he didn't bother to report it to the teacher. Chote was so furious that he was ready to lunge on the boy for the trouble he caused to his brother.

Rahman Sahab explained them not to hide things and speak truth always. He even try to make Chote understand about the consequence of anger. But Chote being himself, never paid heed to it. He was ready to beat up a boy who is 5 years elder to him and double in strength. Though they keep teasing each other but the love between them is boundless. I am really grateful to Allah for blessing us with such kids." Mrs. Rahman said with tears glistening in her eyes.

They shared few more incidents related to Q-bros which amused Inaraah, Aiza and Ghazala. They knew that these brothers love each other endlessly but their childhood incidents showed the depth of the love they have for each other. As it was Zuhr time, everyone retired to their respective rooms to pray.

After prayer, Inaraah called Alhaan to know about his whereabouts. He simply said that he is busy and won't be home anytime soon. Inaraah was disappointed with his reply, since she wanted to spend the day with him.

Having nothing to do after lunch, the three ladies sat together sharing about their friends and college. Though they were enjoying, but still Inaraah was sad and her mind went back to Alhaan. She didn't realize it until now that how much she is used to Alhaan's presence.

'And you were planning to spend a week at Suhana's place.' her mind taunted

Feeling dejected she excused herself from them and made her way to the room. She stopped in her track when she saw Azaan coming out of their room.

"Bhai I am here. Do you want anything?" Inaraah said going near him.

"Ah.. yes.. I mean no. Actually I came to see whether Chote is at home." Azaan replied.

"Huh. But you three went together in the morning right. You don't know where Alhaan is?" Inaraah questioned.

"Yes we went together in the morning. I forgot about it. I have some work, I will see you later." Saying so Azaan practically ran from there leaving Inaraah confused at his behaviour.

Inaraah shrugged off the thought and went inside the room. She was about to go near the cupboard when her eyes fell on the paper bag placed on the bed. She got confused seeing the bag and went near the bed.

"As far as I remember, this bag was not there when I left the room." She mumbled to herself.

'Maybe Azaan bhai placed it.'

She opened the bag which had a box and a note in it. She took the note and read it aloud.

Please wear that dress and be ready by 7.30 pm. Driver will pick you up and drop you at your destination.

Your Crazy Hubby.

A big smile broke on Inaraah's face reading the note. So this is his important work, Inaraah thought. She felt happy realizing that Alhaan planned a surprise for her. She opened the box and in it was a beautiful black anarkali frock with golden work around the neck, sleeves and on the chudidhar as well.

(Inaraah's dress 👇👇👇👇)

Inaraah's eyes held awe while a smile was plastered on her face. The disappointment she felt moments before was gone and now she was just wishing the time to run fast so she can be with Alhaan.

She went to her wardrobe and removed a black hijab which had golden flowers and stones on it. She then matched the jewellery with it. Suddenly she remembered the gift she bought for Alhaan during the wedding shopping and thought this was the perfect time to give it to him.

Her thoughts were broken by the Azaan(call for prayer) and she sat on the bed listening to it. She read Durood-e-shareef and then made dua. She then went to washroom to do ablution and offered her Salah(prayer). She read Quran for sometime and then got up to inform Sumaiyya about it.

Inaraah opened the door to move out and saw Sumaiyya standing near the door with her hand in mid-air. She smiled at her and said, "I was about to knock the door."

"Please come in Mamma." Inaraah said.

Inaraah was about to tell her but Sumaiyya beat her to it. "I know Chote is waiting for you Inaraah. Azaan informed me about it. I just came to ask whether you need help in anything."

Inaraah shook her head as no and showed her the dress which Alhaan bought for her. Sumaiyya was happy to see the progress in their relationship and showered Inaraah with innumerable blessings. She told Inaraah to get ready after Magrib Salah(prayer) and left the room.

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Alhaan's Flat:

The Q-bros came to the flat which Alhaan purchased after his return from London. He comes here whenever he wants to be alone or to finish his pending work. But today was different. He was here to prepare a surprise for Inaraah and most importantly to confess his feelings to her. Tauhid joined them within 5 minutes and they settled on the sofa.

"Being with me you became so smart Chote." Azaan said. Alhaan just rolled his eyes at him. He never leave any moment to praise himself.

"You and your narcissism." Alhaan replied.

"Don't be so jealous of me Chote. It's okay to accept that you copy my style. After all I am your elder brother." Azaan said. Alhaan ignored his remark while Tauhid laughed at his self-praise.

"Azi." Faizan said.

"Yes Bhai." Azaan looked at his elder brother with a broad smile.

"Just shut up." Faizan replied. Azaan smiling face changed into a frown while Alhaan laughed seeing him. Azaan got up and stormed into the kitchen mumbling, "People cannot tolerate perfectionist around them."

After discussing about the menu for dinner for more than an hour, Alhaan finally decided to cook Noodles for Inaraah. Azaan however opposed the idea saying he should cook Indian dish. But Alhaan refused since they have been eating those from past month.

"Who eats noodles on a date?" Azaan questioned.

"Inaraah and me." Alhaan replied. In return he got an annoyed look from Azaan. Not wanting to annoy his brother, he told him that Inaraah loves noodles.

"And what gift did you get for Inaraah?"Azaan asked. Alhaan has planned it before but he didn't want to disclose his surprise to anyone, not even his brothers.

"I got her a dress which is in the car. After reaching home, please place it in our room without Inaraah's knowledge." Alhaan said.

"Chote didn't Mamma teach us, it's indecent to open anyone's cupboard." Azaan chastised Alhaan.

Alhaan just shook his head at his brother's behaviour. He is scolding him as if he never did anything wrong in his life.

"Bhai I never said you to place it in cupboard." Alhaan countered. Before Azaan could say anything, Tauhid interrupted them.

"Bhai you know you can place the gift on the bed. You don't have to open the cupboard and also it will be clearly visible to Inaraah." Tauhid replied.

Azaan smiled warmly at Tauhid and started wiping his fake tears. "I am so proud of you Tauhid. Working with me have influenced you so much that you became a genius like me." Azaan said placing a hand on his heart to add effects while Tauhid just laughed at his humour.

"Ya Allah, not again please." Alhaan mumbled.

"Azi if you are done with your self praises, can we start for what we are here." Faizan said.

"Of course Bhai. You all are wasting time in talking." Saying so Azaan got up and moved towards the balcony.

Tauhid and Azaan were setting the lights and table for two in the balcony while Alhaan and Faizan were arranging the living room. They placed candle stands with round scented candles at the corners and square scented candles on the center table.

As it was time for Zuhr Salah, they went to Masjid and offered their Salah. On there way back to the apartment, they bought Pizzas for lunch. After doing the last minute settings, Faizan, Azaan and Tauhid left at around 4 pm while Alhaan stayed back.

He went in the bedroom and removed all the gifts he bought for Inaraah. He started writing note for each gift and placed them in the box below the gifts. He then went in the kitchen to boil the noodles and chop vegetables. On hearing the Azaan for Asr, he went to the other room to offer prayer. After prayer, he ordered Chocolate Ice cream from B&R.

It was around 7 pm when he was done with everything from cooking to setting table. He showered and changed into a fresh pair of clothes. He lit all the candles and switched off the lights.

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It was around 7.45 pm when Inaraah reached at her destination. The guard escorted her towards the flat as instructed by Alhaan. With every step she took, her excitement increased. She love surprises but for now her heart yearned to be with Alhaan.

As soon as she reached the flat she stopped in her place. The door was open and the living room was dim with only candles illuminating sweeping away the darkness. She closed the door behind her and placed her handbag on the side stand. She was glancing around in awe, when her eyes landed on Alhaan who was leaning on the wall with folded arms and a beautiful smile on his face.

Her legs started moving on its own accord and within a second she was in his arms. Alhaan was surprised as he didn't expect it but return the hug any way.

"Missed me?" Alhaan whispered. Inaraah didn't break the hug and nodded with her head still on his shoulder. Alhaan pulled her closer not leaving an inch gap between them while Inaraah placed her head in the crook of his neck. They stayed like that for sometime which felt like an eternity to them.

Alhaan broke the hug and cupped her face. "You look beautiful wifey." He muttered and placed a kiss on her forehead.

"Common let's offer prayer first then have dinner." Alhaan said.

He took her hand in his and moved to the other room to offer prayer. After praying and reciting Quran, they placed the prayer rugs and Quran in its place. Inaraah got up to leave when Alhaan caught her wrist. Inaraah turned towards him with a questioning look. Alhaan moved towards her and started un-pinning her Hijab. "You don't need it here." He mumbled.

One of the pin slipped and fell on the floor. Alhaan bent down to pick it when his eyes landed on Inaraah's ankle. She was wearing the anklets which he gave her as a wedding gift. He felt happy and a beautiful smile laced on to his lips.

They moved towards the balcony which was adorned with small white decorative lights. It was so beautifully set upped that it looked as if the moonlight was enlightening it. Inaraah was busy admiring the glowing moon while Alhaan moved to kitchen to heat up the food.

She looked around to find Alhaan missing and turned to go inside when she saw him coming with a bowl in hand. He placed the bowl on the table and pulled a chair for her. She smiled at his gestured and settled on the chair.

Inaraah's eyes lit up seeing noodles. After serving their plates, they ate silently exchanging glances in between. Maybe it was Alhaan's presence which was missing all day and now with Alhaan around, her heart was at peace.

After dinner, Inaraah was about to clean the dishes but Alhaan stopped her. They moved towards the living room and Inaraah remembered the gift she bought for him. She was fidgeting with her fingers contemplating how to say it. Over the years she enclosed herself in a shell because of which she lost her ability to express her emotions.

Alhaan caught her hand and questioned, "What is it Inaraah?" Inaraah wanted to tell him but words weren't coming out of her mouth as if she was tongue tied. She moved towards her bag and took out the gift from it. Alhaan was looking at her who was taking nervous steps towards him.

"Alhaan I... no.. while shopping.. uh.. I mean.." She was stuttering not able to form proper sentence. Alhaan looked at the gift in her hand and understood what she was trying to say.

He placed his hands on her shoulders and said, "You bought a gift for me when you went for shopping."

"Y-yes." Inaraah replied.

"You know you can give it to me." Alhaan said. Inaraah placed the gift in his hand and again started fidgeting with her fingers and biting her lips nervously.

"Wow cuff links." He said smiling widely and looked at Inaraah who had a tensed look. He took her hand in his and squeezed it in an assuring way.

"Thank you for the gift. Buying cuff links was always confusing so I never bought them. And these are even more special to me since you gifted them." His words brought a smile on her face.

He placed the box on the center table and cupped her face. "Inaraah, you don't have to be nervous around me. You don't have to think twice before speaking to me. No matter what, I will never judge you." Alhaan spoke softly.

"Now come with me. I have something for you." Alhaan said taking her hand and guiding her towards the bedroom.

Inaraah entered the bedroom while Alhaan stood at the door. Five boxes were placed on the bed serially with numbers on them. She looked back at Alhaan who mouthed her to open them. She gave a nod and sat on the bed taking the first box in hand. She untied the red ribbon and opened the box.

Box 1:  It had  a 'Leaf with a tiny water droplet' made of glass.

You are like that tiny drop on the leaf. The size of the leaf doesn't matter since it's the glistening drop which adds beauty to the entire leaf. That's how I felt when I saw you first time in the office. Surrounded by many but it was you who caught my attention.

A shy smile made it's way on her lips and she looked up only to find herself alone in the room. At first she thought to look for him but decided otherwise. She took the box with two written on it and unwrapped it.

Box 2: It had a beautiful white feather.

You are sensitive and delicate like that feather which should be handle with care. My heart always urged me to protect you and not to trouble or take any revenge on you.

She remembered the annoyed look of Alhaan when he over heard her conversation with Azaan and also the revenge he planned for her. She lightly traced her finger on the feather. She placed it back in the box and took the third box to unwrap it.

Box 3: It had a round glass ball in which a small candle was placed.

Inaraah pressed the button below it and the candle lit up. The candle melted completely and the melted wax again re-shaped itself forming a candle. She took the note placed in the box and read it.

You resemble that candle which melted and formed again. That day in park you looked so helpless melting in your own worries. But again you gathered yourself and stood strong.

Inaraah re-read the note registering his words. She didn't know how to react at his words. She again switched on the button and looked at the candle which was melting and forming again. She sat with it for few minutes and then placed it back in the box. She moved onto the 4th box and unwrapped it.

Box 4: It had a rainbow made of glass.

Your tears were like rain drops for me and I wanted nothing but to be your rainbow. My proposal was unexpected to you just like the rainbow is. I wish to fill your life with colours and I will surely do it. That's a promise.

Inaraah smiled at those words. Surely his proposal was completely unexpected for her. She placed the glass piece into the box and moved on to the last box.

Box 5: It had a mirror in it.

Just like the mirror reflects one's appearance, I want to be the person who reflects you inside out. Not only happiness but your grief also matters to me. I will put all my efforts and one day we will be each other's reflection.

Inaraah sat in her place pondering over his words. She trust him but something was pulling her back from expressing herself. She was scared she would lose him too. She took deep breathes to compose herself and moved out of the room to find Alhaan.

After gesturing her to open the gifts, Alhaan came out and stood in the balcony gazing at the moon. Every gift he bought resembled their journey from the time they met to till date. He heard footsteps coming towards and turned to look at Inaraah. He smiled warmly at her and forwarded his hand to her.

She placed her hand in his and he made her stand next to him. She was about to speak but Alhaan placed a finger on her lips to stop her. He raised his finger in the direction of the moon and said, "People say that moon is beautiful yet alone. But I have a very different opinion related to it. You are just like that glowing moon Inaraah but you are not alone. I am there for you just like that sky."

'I promise to be your sky.' He recalled the promise he made to himself.

'Please be my sky.' His words reminded Inaraah of the wish she made on the night before their wedding.

"I am always there for you. I will never leave your side in any situation because..." Inaraah looked in his eyes which held so much respect, care and most importantly love for her.

"I Love You Inaraah." Alhaan confessed.

His words ringed in her ears bringing a smile on her face while a tiny drop of tear slipped from her eye. Her heart was yearning to hear those words from him. Inaraah was confused about her feelings. As much as she desired to hear those words from him, she knows even he wish to hear it. The word love still scared her.

"Alhaan.. I....." Inaraah was trying to speak but again he stopped her.

"Sshhh.. I am not asking you to reciprocate my feelings Inaraah. I just want you to know my feelings for you. I know you are not sure about your feelings and I will wait till that time." Alhaan spoke.

He cupped her face and placed a chaste kiss on her forehead. Inaraah circled her arms around his neck moving closer to him. He placed a kiss on her right eye and then on the left eye.

He moved back taking a deep breathe to compose himself from crossing his limits. Inaraah opened her eyes when he moved back. She was confused and a bit disappointed with herself. She caught his shirt in her fist to stop him from moving away from her.

"Relax Inaraah. As I said I want to be your reflection and I will wait till that time." Saying so he again kissed her forehead and encircled his arms around her back pulling her towards him. He placed his forehead on hers while Inaraah again circled her arms around his neck. Their hearts beating together while the moon enlightening their path of love.