Yousaf Villa was a sight to behold on the warm summer night of late August, its fairylights twinkling like stars in the evening sky. Inside, the lounge was abuzz with excitement and joy, filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the soft hum of conversation. Aisha, the beautiful bride, sat serene and elegant, her heavy red bridal dress a masterpiece of intricate golden embroidery that seemed to shimmer in the light. Her dark hair was tied in a sleek bun, covered with a delicate net dupatta with golden borders. Her eyes, cast downward in demure modesty, sparkled with a hint of mischief as her little nephew Aaliyan flitted around her, his curious gaze drawn to her again and again.

As the wedding contract was read, Aisha signed her name with a gentle touch, sealing her fate. Congratulations and sweet treats followed, filling the air with laughter and joy. Then, Mahir announced, "The groom is coming!" The ladies hastily covered their heads as Ibrahim, the handsome groom, entered the room with his brothers. But a surprise awaited him! Amina and the cousins had playfully occupied the sofa where Aisha sat, their faces mischievous with excitement.

"So what will it be?" Ibrahim asked, his deep voice tinged with amusement, knowing that this was no mere formality.

Amina smiled and said, "Ten lac." The groom's men thought it was too much and bargained, "It's too much! Lessen the amount." The girls countered, "Eight lac." The men protested, "He's a Professor, not a businessman!" The girls teased, "You're still giving money to the groom, so he can sit with his bride."

 After some banter, they agreed on 50,000/-. The groom's men handed over the amount, and Ibrahim finally sat beside Aisha.

---☆----☆---

"Aisha, stop staring at him," Amina whispered, her voice barely audible over the sound of laughter and chatter. "He'll be all yours for life, so save your gazes for then. For now, remember, you're a bride. Cast your eyes downward, and let the modesty of the occasion guide you."

Aisha's cheeks flushed a deep crimson as she hastily looked away, her heart racing with a mix of emotions. Ibrahim, seated beside her, turned his head, attempting to catch her eye, but she had already demurely lowered her gaze, her eyelashes fluttering against her cheeks.

"Why him?" she thought, her mind a jumble of questions and doubts. "I had hoped the name was just a curious coincidence, a quirk of fate. But now, it seemed, fate had other plans, and I was bound to this man, this stranger, for life." She silently scolded herself for not insisting on seeing the groom's picture when his family proposed the union. "I'll look at him then," she had said, confident in her decision, but now, the reality of her situation dawned on her, and she couldn't help but curse her own naivety.

As she sat, her elegant bridal demeanor a stark contrast to her inner turmoil, Aisha struggled to maintain her composure. Only her family knew the effort it took for her to remain still, her natural inclination to jump up and revel in the joy of the moment, to laugh and play with her nephews Aaliyan and Rohail, suppressed beneath her poised exterior. Her hands, adorned with intricate henna designs, clenched and unclenched in her lap, betraying her inner tension.

---☆----☆---

Ibrahim finally relaxed after a long, exhausting day. Marriage wasn't easy, he thought, but it was worth it. He opened the bedroom door, wondering how to adjust to a new presence in his room. But he halted, taking in the sight before him.

Aisha slept soundly on the bed, her dress flowing around her. Ibrahim smiled, sitting beside her. "She must be tired too," he thought. "She fell asleep waiting for me."

He gazed at her delicate face, still wearing makeup. "I'm really lucky," he said to himself. "She's incredibly beautiful."

After freshening up, Ibrahim returned and carefully made space for himself beside Aisha, not wanting to disturb her. Little did he know, this was just the beginning of many sleepless nights - not for Aisha, but for him.

---☆----☆---

The morning call to prayer, Adhan, woke Ibrahim up. He performed his ablution and headed for the door to go to the mosque, but he hesitated. He glanced back at Aisha, still fast asleep.

Ibrahim approached her quietly and gently touched her shoulder. "A...Aisha," he said softly, unsure what to call her. She responded with a sleepy "Hmm?"

"It's Fajr, time to pray," Ibrahim reminded her. Aisha rubbed her eyes, still half asleep, and got out of bed. She walked towards the left, her eyes still closed, thinking she was in her parents' home.

"The bathroom's on the right," Ibrahim corrected her, trying to stifle a smile. But it was too late; Aisha bumped her head on the wall, jolting her awake. She quickly headed to the bathroom, now fully alert.

Ibrahim chuckled softly to himself, shaking his head in amusement. He left the room, heading to the nearby mosque for morning prayers.

---☆----☆---

After their brief interaction, Ibrahim and Aisha didn't have a chance to talk again. Ibrahim had already eaten breakfast and left to pick up his grandfather from the airport by the time Aisha came down. Later, when Ibrahim returned home, Aisha had already left for the salon with his mother, Laila, to get ready for the wedding reception.

Ibrahim was busy with other tasks and didn't have time to think about Aisha until his mother called, asking him to pick her up from the salon and bring her to the wedding hall. Ibrahim got dressed in his black suit and headed to the salon, using the address his mother had sent him. He had obtained Aisha's phone number from Laila earlier, so he called her. However, a feminine voice answered, saying "Wrong number" and hung up. Ibrahim was confused, wondering if his mother had given him the wrong number.

A few minutes later, Aisha emerged from the salon, still on her phone. "Aunty, where are you? I don't see you here." Ibrahim cleared his throat to announce his presence. Aisha looked up, still listening to Laila on the phone, and saw Ibrahim gesturing towards his white car. "May we?" he asked. Aisha nodded, and they drove in silence.

Ibrahim couldn't help but steal glances at Aisha, who looked stunning in the white wedding dress he had chosen for her. He had never seen her before, as their families had arranged the marriage, but he was drawn to her beauty. He tried to break the silence, complimenting her on her dress, but she didn't respond. He asked for her phone number, and Aisha looked at him for the first time, saying "Sure."

"I'm sure I called this number," Ibrahim said, recalling their earlier conversation. Aisha shared her number, and he confirmed, "It was you?"

"Did you think it was a prank call or someone else?" he asked, curious.

"Yeah, I did."

Ibrahim smiled, his dimples visible through his short beard.

Aisha's response revealed she didn't talk to strangers easily. The reception went smoothly, with only close friends and family members attending. After a tiring day, the newlyweds collapsed onto the bed.

Before sleeping, Ibrahim politely asked Aisha to change into casual clothes, concerned she might be uncomfortable in the heavy dress. While she changed, he joined the elders downstairs.

Meanwhile, Aisha's phone rang. She answered, exchanging greetings before her sister Amina's voice came on. "You didn't even cry yesterday," Amina teased.

Aisha defended herself, "How could I? I was in shock that you got me married to my professor!"

Amina burst into laughter after Aisha revealed that Ibrahim was also her Chemistry professor. "I suppose there will be romance in class now!" Amina teased.

Aisha felt furious and offended, cutting off the call and throwing the phone on the bed. "How can I see him as my husband?" she muttered to herself, feeling frustrated.

Later, Aisha called Mahir, seeking comfort. "Looks like you miss me already," Mahir said with a smile.

Aisha ignored his remark and asked to speak with his sons, Aaliyan and Rohail. Mahir obligingly called them over, and soon the three of them were laughing and chatting together.

As Aisha talked with the boys, her worries faded away. She forgot about Ibrahim being her professor and husband, and simply enjoyed the moment with her loved ones.

The men of Ibrahim's family were gathered in the lounge, chatting and laughing, when the doorbell rang. Ibrahim stood up to answer it, curious about who could be visiting at such a late hour.

To his surprise, it was Umer, Aisha's second brother. "Umer Sahab? What brings you here tonight?" Ibrahim asked, wondering why he had come so soon after Aisha's wedding.

After exchanging greetings, Ibrahim led Umer to the lounge where the other men were sitting. He then headed to the kitchen to inform the women about their guest.

"Amma, Aisha's brother Umer is here," Ibrahim said to Laila, using the affectionate term for "mother". "Please make some refreshments for him."

Khadija, Ibrahim's younger sister, raised an eyebrow. "At this hour? Does he miss his little sister already?"

Ibrahim ignored her teasing comment and left the kitchen to avoid an argument.

In the lounge, the men were warmly chatting with Umer. Ibrahim served refreshments and welcomed him with their family's traditional hospitality.

Umer explained the reason for his visit, "I know it's not appropriate to come to my sister's new home so soon after the wedding, but Aisha forgot some important documents, and I brought them."

Ibrahim reassured him, "It's alright, please don't worry about it. Would you like to see Aisha?"

Umer hesitated, but Ibrahim encouraged him, "I think she'll be happy to see you. She might be missing her family."

Umer smiled but didn't respond. He knew Aisha would adjust well to her new life, having lived in a hostel during her university days.

Ibrahim led Umer to Aisha's room, knocked on the door, and entered.

Aisha was so engrossed in her phone that she didn't hear the knock at the door. She sat on the bed, her expressions changing as she read a novel. Umer entered and called out to her with her pet name, "Ashoo."

Aisha looked up, surprised, and saw her brother standing there. "Bhai?" she asked, putting down her phone.

Ibrahim, who had brought Umer to the room, left them alone to chat comfortably.

After a brief reunion, Umer handed Aisha a file. "You forgot these documents, including your MS admission form and related papers. Mahir Bhai has already submitted your semester fee."

Aisha was concerned, "But will they allow me to pursue higher education?"

Umer reassured her, "Of course, I discussed it with Ibrahim before your marriage, and he agreed. He's a Professor and supports students continuing their studies. He wasn't against your education; in fact, he loved the idea."

Aisha felt relieved, knowing Ibrahim wanted her to pursue higher studies.

Umer advised her, "And remember, this isn't your parents' home. You're married now, so act mature." Aisha made a face, knowing her brother was right.

Later, Ibrahim knocked and entered, inviting them to dinner. Umer smiled and nodded, and before Ibrahim left, he asked, "Can you do me a favor?"

Ibrahim was confused but agreed, "Yes?"

Umer requested, "Please ensure Ashoo doesn't read horror and dark novels, especially before bed."

Ibrahim agreed, though he didn't understand the reason behind the request. Perhaps Umer was worried Aisha would get scared, he thought.

---☆----☆---

When Ibrahim entered their room, he found Aisha reading with a frightened expression. "Are you reading a horror novel?" he asked, concerned.

Aisha nodded, and Ibrahim gently said, "Could you please not read it? Your brother Umer asked me to ensure you don't read horror novels, especially before bed. You look scared, and I don't want you to have a hard time sleeping."

Aisha looked up at him curiously. "Why not? I can handle it."

Ibrahim wanted to divert her attention. He had promised Umer to keep her away from horror novels. Then he remembered the wedding night gift he hadn't given her yet. He retrieved a box from the cupboard and got her attention. "Ahem, I didn't get a chance to give you this last night since you fell asleep early."

Aisha opened the box, revealing a beautiful set of gold and pearl earrings, rings, a locket, and hairpins. She smiled, "Thank you, they're lovely."

To Ibrahim's surprise, she simply put the gift away in the drawer, turned off the lamp, and yawned. "I didn't think she'd fall asleep so quickly after seeing the gift," he thought, but didn't think much of it. He covered himself with the comforter and drifted off to sleep.

---☆----☆---

Ibrahim approached Aisha, who was still fast asleep. He gently touched her shoulder, but her reaction was anything but gentle. She let out a blood-curdling scream, "Aaaaah!" and jumped out of bed, standing on it like a frightened cat.

Ibrahim tried to calm her down, "Relax, Aisha, it's me!" But she was too quick, and her reflexes caught him off guard. He stumbled backward, hands on his face, as if protecting himself from a wild animal.

Downstairs, Khadija and her mother were startled by Aisha's scream. They rushed to the stairs, followed by the rest of the family, who were drawn in by Ibrahim's equally terrifying scream.

As they entered the room, they found Ibrahim retreating from the bed, his hands still on his face, while Aisha stood on the bed, pointing at him accusingly. "Help! He's kidnapped me!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with fake fear. "Who knows what he'll do to me?"

The family was baffled. Laila asked, "Why would he kidnap you?" Khadija chimed in, "He's your husband, Aisha!"

Aisha slowly returned to her senses, looking around at the concerned faces. "Oh God, I'm so sorry!" she said, rushing to Ibrahim and removing her hands from his face. The family gasped at the sight of his scratched mouth.

"Sir, are you okay?" Aisha asked, feigning concern.

Ibrahim simply replied, "Yeah." He now understood Umer's enigmatic smile and words from the previous night. "You really love your sister. Getting worried she'll be scared." And Umer's response, "That's not it. I'm just worried about you." Ibrahim realized that Umer had been warning him about Aisha's unpredictable behaviour.

---☆----☆---

Dilawar arrived at their home for lunch, and his eyes widened in surprise as he took in Ibrahim's scratched face. "What happened to your face?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.

Aisha, who had been avoiding Dilawar since he arrived, had retreated to her room. As her professor and least favorite person, she had no desire to see him. Moreover, she knew he wouldn't recognize her, just as Ibrahim hadn't, since she always wore a niqab in university.

Khadija, eager to share the morning's drama, spoke up, "Let me tell you." She recounted the events, leaving out no details, and Dilawar burst into laughter, his voice echoing in the lounge. "Looks like Bhabhi is very feisty!"

Ibrahim defended Aisha, "It's nothing like that. She was just frightened by my presence." Dilawar teased, "Yar, you're defending her now, I wonder what will happen in the future. She must truly be beautiful to have made you like this."

Ibrahim glared at him and changed the subject, "I heard from Bari Amma that your wife is upset with you and went to her parents' home." Dilawar winced, feeling the jab. "Oh come on, you're hitting me where it hurts the most. And aren't you getting too close to Bari Amma these days?"

Ibrahim shrugged, "She's my mother too. Even though she's my stepmother, she still is my ma." Their complex family dynamics were no secret. Dilawar and Ibrahim were not only friends but also stepbrothers, born to the same father, Osama Durab Khan, who had two wives: Momina, his first wife, and Laila, his second wife.

Osama had married Momina out of obligation, as per his parents' wishes, and Laila out of love. To maintain harmony, he gave them separate homes, where they raised their children. Although the two wives didn't get along and avoided each other, they loved all of Osama's children equally and unconditionally.

Osama's children from Momina included Arif, Dilawar, Subhan, Fateha, and Fareha, while Laila had Ibrahim and Khadija. Despite the complicated family dynamics, the children had grown up with love and respect for each other.

---☆----☆---

Dilawar asked, "By the way, where are you planning to go on your honeymoon?"

Ibrahim replied, "For now, we're not going anywhere."

Dilawar looked upset and asked, "Why not?"

Ibrahim explained, "In a week, Aisha will be going to her parents' home as per tradition. And when she returns, university will start, so we can't go on a honeymoon. We'll plan something during the vacation."

Dilawar suggested, "You can take leave from uni. You're a teacher, not a student."

Ibrahim pointed out, "But Aisha is a student, and uni doesn't allow students with too many leaves to sit for exams."

Dilawar apologized, "Oh, my bad. I didn't think of that."

Ibrahim warned, smiling, "Beware, Dilawar."

Dilawar asked, "Why, what's the problem?"

Ibrahim said, "Khadija is joining the same uni. She'll probably be our student."

Dilawar exclaimed, "Oh shit! We'll become a laughing stock in front of the students!" They knew Khadija's prankster nature and how she often teased her siblings in public. Both of them hoped their reputation wouldn't suffer because of Khadija's antics. What they didn't know was that Ibrahim had someone similar to Khadija in his life - his wife Aisha. The combination of two people with the same age and childish nature was a recipe for unexpected events.

Ibrahim turned to Dilawar, "Oy Dilawar."

Dilawar looked up from his phone, "Hmm?"

Ibrahim shared his concern, "Something's been bothering me. My wife has been calling me 'Sir' instead of Ibrahim."

Dilawar was puzzled, "So? What's the issue?"

Ibrahim explained, "She's also a university student. I think she might be my student, which is why she's calling me 'Sir'."

Dilawar was curious, "And? What's the problem if she is your student?"

Ibrahim was reassured by Dilawar's words, "You're thinking too much. There's no way Aisha bhabhi is your student. She's the same age as Dija, so maybe she just doesn't know how to address you."

Dilawar added, "Besides, there's only one Aisha in uni that I know  of, and judging by what happened this morning, I don't think that's her. So even if she is your student, don't worry."

Ibrahim was silent for a moment before asking, "Which Aisha do you know of?"

Dilawar replied, "My arch-nemesis, who's always complaining to the dean about me and making my teaching profession harder. She's known for her never-ending questions - Miss Question."

Ibrahim remembered, "Oh! I know her. But what they didn't know was that 'that Aisha' was indeed Ibrahim's wife.

As Ibrahim opened the car door, Aisha stepped out into the warm embrace of her family's villa. The entrance burst with activity, like a flower blooming in spring, as every member gathered to welcome the newlyweds. Yousaf Shaheen, Aisha's father, beamed with pride alongside his wife Zara, followed by Mahir, Umer, Isa, and their spouses, all eager to shower love on the couple. Aaliyan and Rohail, like two little balls of energy, sprinted towards Aisha, screaming "Ashoo!" as she happily hugged them tight. Ibrahim's face lit up with a warm smile as he greeted his new family.

After a delightful lunch together, Ibrahim bid farewell to his bride, leaving her at her parents' home for the traditional week-long stay. As Aisha settled into her childhood room, her mother Zara asked, "So, how were your days there?" Aisha's response, "Not bad, but not too good either," sparked Zara's concern. She worried about her youngest child, who had always been pampered and protected. Aisha reassured her, "I've made friends with Dija, so I feel comfortable and have someone to talk to."

Amina, the eldest sibling, joined the conversation, her voice filled with wisdom. "What's making you uncomfortable there?" she asked, her eyes locked on Aisha's. Aisha whispered, "It's Sir...I mean Ibrahim." Zara's confusion turned to curiosity. Amina's laughter filled the room as she revealed, "He's her professor!" Zara's eyes widened in surprise, and she teased Aisha, "Enjoy your married life with your professor, dear!" Aisha's face flushed, but Zara's reassuring pat on her shoulder calmed her nerves. "You'll get used to this relationship, and soon enough, you'll become informal with him, knowing your nature."

---☆----☆---

Ibrahim attempted to break the ice with Aisha, asking, "How was your time at your parents' home?" Their marriage had been marked by awkward smiles and brief hellos, but he was determined to connect with her. Noticing her ease and informality with Khadija, he hoped to replicate that comfort with himself, given time.

Aisha's response was brief: "It was fun." Ibrahim probed further, "So, what are your future plans?" Aisha looked puzzled, prompting Ibrahim to clarify, "Will you pursue higher education or...?" He trailed off, unsure how she'd react.

Aisha hastily replied, "I'm going to study Organic Chemistry in my MSC," as if anticipating Ibrahim might revoke his support for her education. Ibrahim's response was encouraging: "That's wonderful! Which university are you applying to?" Aisha explained, "Mahir Bhai has already submitted my admission and semester fee to the same university where I did my BS." Ibrahim's enthusiasm grew, "That's great!"

---☆----☆---

At dinner, Khadija shared her exciting news with Aisha: "I'm going to the same university as you!" Aisha's face lit up with joy, and they both squealed with excitement, their bonding growing stronger.

Laila reminded them to finish eating, warning, "Tomorrow's your first day, don't be late and leave a bad impression!"

Osama noticed Ibrahim lost in thought, his spoon moving slowly in his plate. "Ibrahim, is everything alright? You've been silent for too long." Ibrahim brushed it off, saying he was preparing for his lecture.

Khadija teased, "Your eyes say otherwise!" Aisha realized Ibrahim had been staring at her, and her heart skipped a beat. She felt a mix of emotions: surprise, curiosity, and a hint of fear.

Ibrahim explained, "I was staring because she reminds me of a student from my past... same niqab, same eyes... uncanny." Aisha wondered if he had recognized her, her mind racing with possibilities.

When Ibrahim offered to drive them to university, Aisha declined abruptly. "I want to take the bus with my friends," she said, her voice firm but polite.

Khadija asked, "Is there a reason you don't want to go with him? He's a good driver." Aisha replied, "I want to spend time with my friends on the bus. We don't get to see each other often."

Ibrahim smiled warmly, understanding Aisha's desire for friendship. Khadija announced, "I'll take the bus with her," and Ibrahim agreed, his eyes lingering on Aisha for a moment before nodding.

---☆----☆---

Ibrahim approached Aisha as she brushed her hair in front of the dressing table. "Is that all to it?" he asked, his eyes locked on hers.

Aisha paused, her brush hovering in mid-air. "Pardon?"

"There's more to it than just hanging out with friends, right?" Ibrahim pressed on, his tone gentle but curious.

Aisha knew she couldn't hide the truth anymore. "To be honest, I don't want anyone in the university to know we're married," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ibrahim raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Why not?"

Aisha took a deep breath before explaining, "I'm still young, and my friends will tease me if they find out I'm already married. Plus, I don't want other students to know that my husband is a Professor. They might try to use me to get good grades out of you."

Ibrahim nodded thoughtfully, understanding her concerns. "Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. Marriage is a personal matter, and it shouldn't affect your studies."

Aisha smiled brightly, relieved. "Thank you for understanding."

Ibrahim smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. It was the first time he had seen her smile so warmly at him, and he felt a pang of happiness.

---☆----☆---

The next morning, Aisha and Khadija headed to the bus stop, excited for their first day of university. As they boarded the bus, Aisha squealed with delight. "Khadija, you're studying Organic Chemistry too? We're classmates!"

Khadija grinned. "I know, right? Fate wants us to suffer together!"

Their excitement was short-lived, as they entered the lecture hall and found Ibrahim, their husband and professor, standing at the front. "I won't take roll call," he said seriously. "The Class Representative will handle it." Aisha thought, "Thank goodness, he didn't notice me!"

Ibrahim delivered his lecture and left, all business as usual. Khadija's unusual quietness made him think she forced Aisha to bunk classes on the first day.

Next, Professor Dilawar walked in, whistling a tune. He seemed to be in a good mood, greeting the students with a smile. "Good morning, class! Let's get started with attendance."

As he read out the names, his smile grew wider. "Aneeqa Shabir?" A girl chirped, "Here!"

But when he read the next name, his expression froze. "Aisha Fatima..." He shut his eyes, his face contorting in dismay. "Ssss... darn my luck!"

He turned around, his eyes still closed, and muttered under his breath, "Why me? Why does she have to be in my class?"

Aisha stood up, her eyes flashing with defiance. "Here," she replied, her voice icy.

Professor Dilawar's eyes snapped open, his gaze locking onto hers with a scowl. His mind racing with venomous thoughts: "Ugh, she's back. The dean's favorite. Thinks she's so smart. I'll make sure she fails."

Aisha's eyes narrowed, her thoughts mirroring his hatred: "I'll make sure he regrets ever crossing me."

Khadija noticed the tension and shifted uncomfortably in her seat. This was going to be a very long semester...

---☆----☆---

Ibrahim heard Aisha's frustrated voice coming from Khadija's room, her favorite spot to vent. He hesitated at the door, knowing that entering the room would only make her more upset.

"Who does he think he is? Can't he even speak properly?" Aisha exclaimed.

Khadija tried to calm her down. "Relax, Aisha, relax."

But Aisha was having none of it. "Relax? With Sir Dilawar teaching us? He doesn't know how to teach! Whenever I ask a question, he makes a face like I'm annoying him."

Ibrahim was taken aback by her words. He hadn't realized she felt so strongly about their professor.

Khadija tried to intervene. "Come on, Aisha, maybe it's all in your head."

But Aisha was adamant. "No, it's not! He's been like this since our BS days. I've complained to the dean multiple times, but he just won't budge. He keeps saying 'He's got his PhD from Oxford' like that's an excuse for his behavior."

Aisha flopped onto her bed, releasing her anger. "At least Professor Ibrahim tries to answer our questions. If he doesn't know the answer, he says so. Not like Mr. Dilawar, who just makes a face and ignores us."

Khadija teased, "Siding with your husband, eh?"

Aisha threw a pillow at her. "No, I'm stating facts! Even if you asked me about the comparison between the two before I got married, my answer would be the same: they're like heaven and earth. Professor Ibrahim is a million times better than Mr. Dilawar."

Ibrahim left Khadija's room without disturbing her, still reeling from the surprise of hearing a student praise him behind his back. He knew that most students flattered professors to their faces but spoke ill of them behind their backs. This rare display of genuine admiration left him feeling both pleased and intrigued.

---☆----☆---

He visited Momina's home, where he found Dilawar trying to call his wife. Ibrahim noticed Dilawar's exhausted expression and asked, "You seem drained. Was today too challenging?"

Dilawar let out a deep sigh. "Tell me about it! Guess what, Miss Question is still in uni." He shook his head, clearly frustrated.

Ibrahim's eyes widened in surprise. "I know. I've just heard her complaining about you."

Dilawar's expression turned incredulous. "Why don't you answer her questions?" Ibrahim asked, curious about Dilawar's teaching methods.

Dilawar explained, "I want to give others a chance to ask questions too. When she starts, there's no end to them. The other students can't get a word in edgewise."

Ibrahim suggested, "Then clear that up with her. Let her know your reasoning."

After some light conversation, Dilawar's curiosity got the better of him. "Where did you hear her backbiting me?" he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly.

Ibrahim replied, "In my home," as he snacked on the dry fruits placed by Fareha in front of them.

Dilawar's eyes widened in disbelief. "In your home? Who brought her there?" He chuckled, clearly finding the situation amusing.

Ibrahim smiled mischievously. "We did. As my bride."

Dilawar's expression changed from curiosity to amusement. "That makes sense," he said, taking a walnut from the plate.

After a few minutes of silence, Dilawar's eyes widened in realization. "Your bride! You mean Bhabhi is actually...?"

Ibrahim chuckled. "Yeah, Miss Question. I found out today."

Dilawar held his head in disbelief. "You're joking, right?"

Ibrahim's smile grew wider. "Do I look like I am?"

Dilawar shook his head, still trying to process the information. "Good luck, brother!" he exclaimed.

Ibrahim's smile faltered for a moment before he replied, "Don't worry about me. I'll be fine." He remembered the tinge of respect he felt when Aisha confidently spoke about his good teaching skills. He smiled again, feeling a mix of joy and curiosity about the future.