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" So guys, the theme of our today's presentation was based on the same matter. There are lots of practical examples of this sociological fact that every third generation of any immigrant individual or a community becomes totally intermingled in the culture of that locality / country which they occupy. " Professor Hudson softly tipped the middle of his glasses with his index finger.

" Also my fellows, colleagues and students, if anyone of you has any kind of question about the matter I just presented, feel free to ask. " Professor threw a detailed look over hundreds of people sitting in the huge seminar hall of the Florida International State University. The hall was two-thirds full at the moment.

This hall was reserved for various meetings, seminars, presentations and other important official events.

" Can you please explain it further with some examples ? " Linda was the first one to ask the question.

" Sure Linda , ummm....lets suppose some Mr. Ram and his wife are residing in a big, rich-in-culture asian country like India. Now due to some " Push " and " Pull " types of Socio-Economical factors he leaves his motherland India and decides to live in some well developed, modern country like England. Obviously they would face much different atmosphere, traditions and culture there. Then the process of Socio-Economical transition would start. In this transitional period Mr. and Mrs. Ram would be regarded as the very first indian representatives in their language, clothing, cultural habits and traditional approach. Now, gradually with time, some factors would definitely alter some of their things and with time their grand children, being completely born and raised in the U.K, would defintely have many things different from them, specially regarding culture and traditions. Though what won't change will be their genotype and phenotype, I mean physical structure and genetic composition. " Professor Hudson gave his point of view in long but clear sentences.

"Jesus, it's deep, Isn't it ? " A brunette from the front rows translated the feelings of majority which was attending the presentation.

" I don't think so Julia, " He turned his face to the brunette. " It's very simple actually. See, Mr.Ram and his wife came to live in UK from India, okay? They can read and speak Hindi very fluently as they passed a pretty big part of their lives in India. Mrs. Ram always wears Sarhi or some other pure indian dress, she never wore any western cloth like skirts or trousers. Infact she doesn't feel comfortable in these cloths and thinks that such cloths expose and reveal her body. Similarly both of them are well aware of their customs and traditions. Mrs. Ram is a pure house wife, doesn't want to do a job unless there is a need. " At this point Professor stopped to take a breath and then began again.

" Now after an year, this couple gets its first offspring. A son, then after an year a daughter. At this stage, Mr. and Mrs. Ram decide that they would try their best to transfer their religion, customs, culture and traditions to their children in its original form. And they do try their best but every living form is different from other and requires specific environment, climate and conditions to grow up in it's original form and needs special care for it's maintenance. They might try their best to give eastern atmosphere to their kids at the home but when their kids would go to an English school, they would meet with british kids who have western culture. Western culture, which has many things which are supposed to be prohibited in the eastern society. But Mrs.Ram's kids would hear, see and observe all those things for the first time through their british class fellows. Naturally and automatically they would adopt many things and would do many other things too because every body else would be doing those things . Is it clear? " He questioned, searching for any questioning hand or voice but the general silence indicated that his message had been conveyed.

" Now, after like thirty years of their migration, the grandchildren of Mister and Mrs.Ram would be pure British citizens. Not just in papers but in acts, manners, language, acts, clothings, behaviour and many traditions too. " He finally completed the last of his sentences.

" Professor, I'd like to ask about what you just mentioned. I mean you said there are pull and pull factors which force an individual or a family to migrate. What are these Push and Pull Factors ? " Linda was very much curious like everyone else.

" These are the well known terms which are used in the subject of community sociology. " Professor took off his glasses, rubbed them gently with the tissue paper, then wore them again. " Pull " factors are the conditions, matters, circumstances and attractions which pull an individual or a family " towards" a better present and future. Like, for example luxuries and facilities of United states of America, it's peaceful atmosphere, feeling of protection, money and other attractions like that. All of these are " PULL " factors. You got it ? " Professor Hudson pointed towards Linda.

" It's exactly the vice versa. Those conditions and circumstances which push an individual or a community "away" from a worst present and future. Like for example lack of facilities in some third world country like Pakistan, terrorism, its inscure atmosphere, poverty and repulsions like that. All of these are called as " PUSH " factors. " Finishing his sentence, Professor Hudson finally took a long breath.

" But Sir what about their ethical behaviour and religious approach? I mean how this migration affects an individual or a family on a religious scale ?" This time it was a male voice, from the back rows. It turned every head towards its direction.

" Well that's tough to answer. It actually depends on the family but still I would say that atmosphere would definitely affect their thinking and approach towards daily life matters and even religious too, not necessarily in negative way though. " Professor said, lost in deep thoughts.

" If you allow, I can explain it on the basis of religious approach too " The same confident voice gripped every one's attention again.

That was something totally unexpected in this presentation. Professor Hudson, who was almost about to wind up the projector and transparencies from the table on the stage, turned to face this guy who had his place somewhere in the back seats.

" May I have the pleasure of your introduction boy? It seems I never saw you in my class before. " Professor's astonishment was real and natural.

" Oh sure Professor, I am Sameer..... Sameer Hasan. I am originally from Pakistan. Just done with the transfer procedure from Kent State University to here. So I am sort of a new at your place but not in the subject though. " His smile was breath taking and so was his accent and tone.

" Well this presentation was basically a solo kind of presentation. If other people don't object, I don't have any problem with any one taking part or proceeding this interesting discussion further ." Professor Hudson shrugged his shoulders and threw a detailed look over the audiences but all of them were silent.

" Well I guess no one has an objection in hearing your point of view so it would be great to hear you providing you respect all the religions and cultures and want to hear others too. " Professor Hudson gave him a questioning look.

" Oh sure, I am very much willing to take part in such discussions. " He smiled.

" Okay, so you can come over here and explain, okay guys it's over to Sameer now. " Professor moved from his place , inviting him to the stage of huge and wide seminar hall.

As Sameer left his seat, every eye rose towards him. He had the good looks of a model and wore his clothing like one. Dressed in plain, fitting, half sleeved, simple white cotton shirt and black trousers, he emerged from the back rows and took the charge of the presentation. His neatly cut, sleek, shiny black hair style was the second external thing one noticed about him after his perfect male height and strong broad shoulders. His body was powerful and well proportioned. His straight black hair was combed back, wet and shiny, his olive freshly-shaved skin stretched glowingly over high cheek bones, a cleanly cut jawline and strong nose. His luxuriant mane telegraphed his attitude. No one told him what to do or what to think.

"Jesus, he's hot " Diana gasped . She was popular to have a " thing" for indian guys.

Now every eye was on him. Those glances and stares at him were loaded with interest and expectation of what was about to come.

" Thanks Professor, for giving me the privilege of being here to present what I have for this sensitive and significant topic. I am not here to argue with anyone. Infact I totally agree with you on what you said about this migration philosophy. I just wanted to explain it from my personal point of view in the light of the culture, traditions and customs of the region and religion to which I belong. " Sameer began in a calm voice and balanced accent. "Actually I just wanted to evaluate your presentation in the light of my own religion Islam which is the most rapidly growing religion in America now adays. " Sameer added.

" Sure Sameer, carry on. " Professor replied, taking a seat adjacent to his fellows.

" Thank you so much Professor. In our religion Islam, every one has a basic right to act and behave in a specific islamic culture. But at the same time, being a very neat, clean and well organized religion, Islam wants its followers to obey its certain rules which ofcourse are benificial for them. I won't call those rules as " Restrictions" , I would call those rules as " Discipline ". Like in a strong army you have certain rules to keep all the soldiers or followers united and organized. Islam gives every one a complete, pure, special and unique life style, a model protocol to spend life and balanced rights and places to both sexes in the society. Islam also respects every one's originality and promotes a typical holy and secure culture " Sameer said.

" I know, but I am making a ground for what I want all of you to understand. " Sameer smiled gently.

" So, for example, Islam gives a separate and dress for men and women, fulfilling all the needs. Islamic culture doesn't allow free intermingling of both sexes, unless they are not related, to decrease chances of social crimes and problems. Like shaking hands with opposite sexes is not allowed in our religion. " Sameer presented his opinion.

" Why ? the logic? I mean why your faith stops boys and girls to shake hands with each other ? I don't see anything wrong in doing that. " This time it was Mrs.Lisa, another member of the staff.

" Can I ask why American health services advise in their so called "Sex Education " that boys and girls should avoid physical contact with multiple partners and should always use protection ? " Sameer asked in a serious and yet professional manner.

" Ofcourse to protect the society from unwanted effects. " Mrs. Lisa looked a little confused at his question.

" Aha, the only difference is that you guys use " difficult " protection at " late" stage and Islam promotes " easy " protection at an " early " stage . Islam says don't sow seed for a plant which would surely give you poisonous fruits later. In other words you can say that Islam does emphasize on " Prevention is better than cure ". So why not avoid this unnecessary and formal physical contact at an earlier stage ? His smile became deeper.

" Well I guess we are slipping from the original path " Professor Hudson changed his position on his seat.

" Actually, that's what I am saying, that migration, from some islamic country to a non-islamic one, does change one's purely religious, regional and cultural identity, either partially or completely. " Sameer finally gave his opinion.

" Excuse me Mister, I just dont get what you're trying to say, we'd really appreciate it if you go straight to the point. " The sentence itself was very rude in accent and sarcastic in tone but it didn't fail to attract attention of everyone attending the presentation.
Sitting in the very first, front row of the seats, there was this girl with exciting beauty and modern charms. Her complexion was fair in all senses. Her personality could be called as attractive with every respect and aspect. She was tall even though she was sitting. She was smart, her figure and body mould was well-differentiated in her fitting, light pink coloured cotton shirt with quarter sleeves. Her fitting dark maroon slacks were adding more shape to her already well balanced body.

" Call me Kiran " The force with which she shook her shoulder-length brown hairs shocked many people sitting there.

" Oh nice to meet you Miss. Kiran, nice name by the way. " He gave her a breath-taking smile. " Anyway back to what I was saying......Hmm.... okay for your convenience, let me illustrate this with an example.
About two centuries ago, a group of English farmers belonging to the " East India Company " tried to grow mangoes here in the west. But unfortunately their experiment for mango plantation here in the west became totally useless. The fruits of the same eastern "seeds" became sour, bitter and weird here. They tried their best to find the reason for this failure. In the end they concluded that a new, little seed needs its original "atmosphere", typical "environmental conditions" and specific " soil " and special " weather " for germination. All these conditions are not alike in the east and the west. Little plantations are so sensitive and weak that they can't hold themselves in hard tough weather. So, ultimately they winded up their project , deciding what is praticed here in States and Europe these days too. They now "import" all those " mature" , " grown-up " mangoes from India and Pakistan. " Said Sameer.

" Okay so what do you suggest as a solution for this migration problem ? " Professor Hudson took a long and deep breath. There was a gleam of appreciation in his eyes.

" There is only one way to remove this confusion. One who migrates here from the east on permanent basis, should either adopt a pure and totally eastern life style or a complete western life style . Even if they don't give it a thought right now, I am sure those days are not very far when our future eastern generations living in the west would automatically become totally unfamiliar with their original culture, language, clothings, traditions and many other things. By the way I know many won't be agreed with me on this point, that's why let me add that it's totally my personal opinion and everyone has right to disagree. I respect everyone's opinion " Sameer put a critical glance at the audience.

" But can you please put some light on those factors which make your Pakistani people change their culture while living in the west ? Do they do that willingly ? if yes then why ? I mean why do they adopt all that western culture ? " This time, it was another Professor from the university staff.

" Hmm...Compromise, Collapse or Complex , whatever you call it. They realize that they are living in a country that doesn't belong to their own ancestors. Their roots were not present in this country. " Sameer said, turning towards him slightly.

" Yes ofcourse, complex of being " brown " in a country of " whites". They know they can't change their complexion, so they unconsciously adopt looks of western people in cloths. See this is a gradual, chronic process....they have now completely adopted jeans and trouser culture. Just 50 years ago it was almost impossible to believe a Pakistani or an Indian muslim woman wearing western cloths. See eastern women have many things different from western women like complexion , religion and physical features. They can't change their religion, they can't change their complexion and can't change their physical features too. However what they can change is their language, way to dress, way to talk, daily habits and thinking and they do change all these things, unconsiously. Pakistani girls studying in western institutes and working in offices here, think that if they would wear Pakistani dress , people would laugh on them or would insult them, bug them with the hint of pre-judice and laughter. " Sameer's voice was gentle but convincing as he said,

" But I think people would look at you more if you wear Pakistani dress here, I mean you become centre of attention, so you must look like them" A girl, wearing scarf but dressed in fitting jeans and T-shirt, took part in the conversation for the first time.

" Aha sara, what a logic ? you mean if after like ten years, all american students in our university stop wearing cloths at all and prefer nudity so even then should we look like them ? If every one gets naked here, should we take off our cloths too just to remove ourselves as the focus of attention? " He asked sarcastically. " If majority is doing something bad, we should also adopt those bad things so that we should not be differentiated from the majority ? WOW " His smile was brave, confident and very matter-of-fact.

" So what are the final results of such changes " ? Mrs. Lisa asked again, totally enjoying this interesting discussion.

" Results are obvious, this new generation growing up in the west can not be called as a pure eastern generation. By the way they are not purely western either. This creates a natural confusion among them...I don't blame them. It's also because of their parents. Now such children are unable to read or totally understand their urdu language and its vocabulary. In Pakistan, women and girls don't wear wear western or male oriented cloths, by the way if anyone has doubt about this , he or she should see it by visiting offices, streets, and different institutions of Pakistan. But unfortunately what I saw here is that majority of girls here with south eastern origin wear western cloths. Infact importance of culture and traditions has become so reduced for them that I have heard some of them resembling two cultures as just two different colours like blue or green. That's a real pity. " Sameer was well- prepared for such questions.

" Wait a minute, you mean your own people living here hate Pakistan and its local people ? " Asked Julia, putting a meaningful glance at Kiran .

" Not all the people, but unfortunately you can easily find a big number of Pakistanis specially the youths living in the West cursing their own country and giving its people names like narrow minded, arrogant and stuff. " Sameer replied.

" The truth is that this western soil, weather and environment has modified those innocent little plants... An originality-confusion modifies their thoughts and personalities. They ask, who are we?? Since their childhood, many questions come to their minds which they ask from their parents. They ask, are we Pakistani ? but when they go to Pakistan they see that Pakistanis can speak and read their regional language , Pakistani girls don't wear jeans, skirts or trousers, they don't shake hands with guys. So even their parents are unable to answer many of those questions. " Sameer answered her confidently.

" Explain those questions and what are the answers ? " Mrs.Lisa asked for the third time.

" Like Papa why did we move here when Pakistan is our original land? Mom, how's Pakistan ? how are the people out there ? Are they like us ? and many other questions. Usually the reasons their parents tell for this migration are like good jobs in the West, feeling of insecurity in Pakistan, terrorism, lack of facilities and illiterate people in Pakistan. "

" But there is more. Now mentality and thinking changes occur. As they spend their lives in the West, the image they get of various social and religious things is very different from those found in the East. In the West, they come across with nudity, sex, homosexuality but thankfully these things are not very open and common in South east asia specially in Pakistan and for kind information of all of you sitting here, nudity, extra-marital sex and homosexuality are serious legal crimes in Pakistan and law proposes intense punishments for all of such social crimes. Now many of you would think that we are legally " violating " the rights of nudists and sex maniacs but as I said, we have different point of view on such things and being a muslim country, we've a complete right to spend our lives in the way our religion wants. " Sameer said firmly.

" Aha, very well said. I do agree with what you said about different images. Like in your Pakistan, women are supposed to sit at home only and make babies for you, you males treat them like servants but here in the West, us women do something "productive" with their lives. " Kiran shot him a sharp frown.

" In Pakistan, many women are supposed to sit at home to make babies who can be doctors, engineers and intellectuals of the future, so they actually do something "re-productive" with their lives ." His voice was firm and unshaken, with no touch of anger in it.

" I don't believe on your blind concepts. According to you, your Pakistan is free from every social evil and all of such things exist in the West only, that's an extreme narrow mindedness. " Kiran felt a real anger for him.

" I never, ever said such thing Miss. Kiran. Social evils do exist in Pakistan too but thankfully they don't have much chances and oppurtunities there. Things like sex and drinking do happen there too , but at very low scale and not in the open. Come to Pakistan and ask about the various sexual techniques, terms, positions and conditions of sex which they show here in the West, on the media. Majority of Pakistanis doesn't know about such things. " He smiled courageously, fixing her with a sharp glare.

The fractional tighening of Kiran's lower lip indicated the message had been received and understood.

" Women of your country are much lower than other parts the world. Thank God I was born here in the West, so I am a way up than those low women who live in your Pakistan." Kiran was now getting kind of personal though against her wish.

" Do you know why they are " low" ? why your position is a way " up " than their ? " His voice became a little emotional for the first time.

" Ever heard of a Physical balance ?? called as " Tarazoo " in Urdu. Yes the same apparatus which is used to measure the weights of various objects and you can find it in many science labs . So do you know what happened? Nature put women living in Pakistan in one arm of the balance, while a western women in the other. Now the arm containing the Pakistani women was so heavy with the weight of her modesty, respect, sacrifice and devotion that it became low and low. While the other arm containing the western woman became so light-weight due to absence or less quantity of such things that it rose up and up " His smile was never going to stop.

There was deep, deadly silence in the whole crowd. Every one from the teachers to the students was lost in this deep but interesting discussion.

" And what about your " Paki " women being at home doing nothing but back biting , huh? " Kiran's voice got emtional too.

" About " Back Biting ", I consider it as a universal property of women. It, really, is a bad thing though less than some other sorts of " biting " which are pretty common here in your West." At the end of his remark , the hall echoed with the sound of an intense laughter. Audiences, all the seniors and juniors were equally enjoying this arguement.

" You're just using these turns and twists of words to prove your dumb ass stuff, I can't make you believe what you don't want to. " She said harshly, but the truth was that for the very first time in her life she was feeling like tongue-tied.

" Anyway, in our Pakistan, there is NO sex education at primary level, and how bad it is that you get sex education here even at school but the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases is much much bigger than the asian counteries. What's the advantage of this type of sex education then? " Sameer asked the audiences, ignoring her personal remark about him.

" But we do have some good rating systems on the media which prevent children from exposing to sex and nudity " Linda addressed him for the very first time.

" How funny it is that despite of all those rating systems and restrictions, in USA, an average child is exposed to 9,000 sexual scenes per year, you can check the statistics if you have any doubt. " Sameer told her.

" So your faith doesn't believe in sex education Mr.Sameer? " This time it was again Professor Hudson.

" That's not true, sex education is an important aspect of life and our universal religion islam has explained its every aspect in a very detailed and yet modest and neat manner. In our culture, we don't learn about sex by reading novels, watching movies and magazines. Our religion explains it at the proper time and stage in a very nice and holy way, preventing everyone who practices it from various psychological, pathological, physical and social drawbacks. " Sameer replied confidently.

" Exactly, but not just that, our religious preachers perform the same duty. Anyone should feel free to ask any question regarding any matter of life. In addition, there are many such religious occasions, where one can easily inquire about any thing creating confusion. What we don't believe is that sex should not be taught in the way they do it here in the West. Here they portray sex in a very inciting way. " He stopped for a second to take a long breath.

" Besides, do you teach a duck how to swim or just put it in water and let it swim ?In every American school, public or private, sex education is being given from grade 2 to 12. The projected 1990 cost to the nation will be $2 Billion per year. But what are the benefits of so much focus, economical share and attention on the subject? The results are clear, instead of improving, the condition is getting worse and worse here. " Sameer's presentation was loaded with up-to-date statistics and proofs.

" Any example for that Mr.Sameer ? " Kiran added sarcastically, still feeling very much sure of herself at the moment.

" Yes, the latest secular sex education devoid of morality promoted by educators like Dr. Sol Gordon who really encourage nudity, sex education through media even at home too. And yet they say that sex education doesn't mean a "Go Ahead " signal for that. I just wonder as to why some folks after being, told the shape, color, smell and taste of a new fruit, and pleasure derived form eating it, would not like to try it?" Sameer explained his point of view thoughtfully.

" But it's not the answer of my question. I asked can you prove that sex education, the way we give it here in U.S, is not beneficial ? " Now, again, it was Professor Hudson, sharing the discussion. There was a definite look of concern on his face.

" Ofcourse. According to Marion Wright Elderman, President of Childrens Defense Fund in a recent report, " In USA, out of every 20 teens, 10 are sexually active but only 4 use contraception, 2 get pregnant and one gives birth. It is estimated that about 80% girls entering college had sexual intercourse at least once. Going to church does not help either.The incidence increased to 43% in 17 year olds, 46% of 16 year olds, 29% of 15 year olds were sexually active ." Sameer's voice was still unaffected even after continous questions asked by so many people.

" I did read that report with all those bio-statistics but still that's not the answer of my question. " Professor looked little uncomfortable now.

" Oh yes, these epidemiological studies have shown that the health hazards of early sex include sexual trauma, increase in incidence of cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy.TV where about 20,000 sexual scenes are broadcasted annually in advertisement, soap operas, prime time shows and music channels. Not to forget open nudity in news papers and sign boards. " Sameer was now presenting his opinion like a speech.

" Wait a minute, how do you say that about music too ? That's pure narrow mindedness and extremism. I can't believe you said that music promotes sex. If you don't know music is universally acceptable as a food for soul. " Kiran countered, catching him off guard.

" Ofcourse Miss Kiran.Thats why Kandy Stroud, a former rock fan, beg parents to stop their children from listening to what she calls " Pornographic Rock ". Music affects our mood by activating Melatonin, the hormone from the pineal gland in the brain. It is the same gland which has been thought to trigger puberty, and affects reproductive cycle, and sex mood. Not to forget about exciting, erotic musical videos too. " Sameer answered her in a kind, gentle voice. Surprisingly, his face was still devoid of even a slightest hint of tiredness or exhaustion.

The crowed howled on this remark. They all were aware of the events but not of the statistics and the facts.

" The sexual revolution of 60's has affected another dimension of health care. In 1985 alone , 10 million cases of chlamydia, 2 million gonorrhea, 1 million venereal warts, 0.5 million genital herpes and 90,000 syphilis cases were diagnosed. The plague of AIDS is adding a new twist to our fears. The disease is growing at a rate of one case every 14 minutes," His confidence, memory and uniform accent added extra charms to his already pure masculine voice.

" I am sorry to say Mr.Sameer but it seems like you are obsessed with the West and also with its development and open mindedness. " Kiran cut in sharply, her forehead showing few lines now. " I don't blame you for that cuz I know you were raised in Pakistan, where every emotion is exaggerated. Those sick religious fundamentalists around you have converted you into another modern kind of fundamentalist. It's well known truth that you Pakiz just don't respect anyone's rights. " Kiran said coldly, her voice a little louder than before.

" Apart from your insulting behaviour, you called me a fundamentalist. If you're a muslim, would you like to answer a question Miss. Kiran. Tell me what are the fundemantals of Islam? " Sameer asked. He was continously ignoring her harsh and rude remarks but her insults were becoming too much now.

" Nopes, I won't answer your question. I don't wanna put myself into your typical religious crap, when you guys don't find any other way to go, you always use your so called religious tactics. " Kiran's behaviour was very strange at the moment, even for her own colleagues too.

Hearing this, he turned towards the side where senior teachers were present. " Professor Robert, you're the head of the Political Science Department. I'm sure you have studied the muslim religion and culture in depth. If you don't mind, we all would like to hear what do you know about the "fundamentals" of Islam. I mean what are the fundamentals of Islam you know about ?"

" Well, to believe in a single God known as Allah, they believe in their Holy Prophet, their Quran, in angels and in judgement day, " Professor replied insantly. He was well-known for his knowledge about the world cultures and religions.

" Okay, so these are the fundemantals of Islam, now , Mrs. Lisa , " Sameer now turned to the opposite direction, facing Mrs.Lisa now. " Sorry to disturb you, but as you teach english literature here, you could explain it better than us. So Ma'am what does this word " fundamentalist " literally mean?" As he asked, a slight smile appeared on his lips.

" Sure, Mr.Sameer, it literally means " one who practices fundamentals or any " basics " of any sort "

" Thanks, Ma'am. Now from the above explanations, it's clear that a muslim fundamentalist is one who pratices the basic principles of his religion. Doesn't he have every right to practice his basic faiths?? and by the way Miss Kiran.... " Now his deep, large eyes had some colour of naughtiness in them . " Don't you believe in all those beliefs which are fundamentals of Islam? " He completed his sentence.

" Good God ......look at him, he's just like an advocate, fighting his case " Diana was totally lost in the discussion and the sight.

" If you practice all these basic things of Islam then you are a fundamentalist too and if you don't then you can not be called as muslim . Also the most interesting point is that from the above definition, every practicing and believing muslim is a proud fundamentalist. " It was now obvious to her that he had her where he wanted her. Right in his sights, and he was not going to stop now.

"And alright Miss Kiran, I accept myself as a pure Pakistani asian, though I know what people like you think about us but I feel proud to be born and raised in Pakistan. " He gave her a look that told her more than just what he said.

" Now what can I do for you Mr.Sameer if you feel pride for living in a third class country " Kiran shugged her shoulders , not even seeing him this time.

" I better prefer to spend my life as a first class citizen in a country you called as third class instead of living as a third class citizen in a first class country " His remark balanced hers.

A loud " wow" from the audiences made them realize that both of them were not alone.

" May I know your nice name Miss ? " Sameer asked a blonde girl, who was sitting near the stage.

" Oh sure, I am Emma Frost from LA. " Emma felt excited when he spoke to her.

" I am sorry I disturbed you but I just want your help to decide about certain matter. " He smiled re-assuredly. " See this is Mrs.Kiran, your class fellow. Now just suppose, let's forget everythig for a while. Just look at Miss.Kiran. Now I want your honest, sincere and neutral opinion about how does she look like, I mean forget about her nationality in " papers ", just tell me what would you call her on the basis of her complexion, looks and physical features ?" Sameer asked her, his accent filled with sheer expectation.

" Means? You want me to give her a racial identity ?" Emma felt little confused now but was very excited too as at the moment she was the centre of attention for hundreds of seniors sitting there.

" Not really. I won't use the word " racial " here but can you tell me how does Miss.Kiran look like, an American or an Asian ? "

The situation did upset Kiran . It was clearly something Kiran hadn't given much prior thought to.

" Well she sure doesn't look like an American or a white. She, definitely is an Asian and to be more specific I am sure she, either, is an indian or a Pakistani. " Emma replied.

" Thanks alot Emma, you were of great help. So my precious teachers and colleagues, for the last half an hour Miss.Kiran is trying her best to prove herself as a " first class " American but in the end we find that even after being born and bred here in America, she is still considered as an "Indian or a Paki " Thanks alot, that's all, I had to say. " Smiling, he began to walk from the stage to the ground.

" Yeah yeah...whatever " Saying this, she left her seat too and walked the short distance towards the stage where he was standing few moments ago. Reaching there, she took the mic in her hand and said....

" So guys, you heard that ? The basic theme of Mr.Sameer's presentation was that devil or satan doesn't exist in his holy Pakistan. " Kiran laughed, her voice filled with hatred.

Hearing this, Sameer who was about to leave the stage , took another mic in his hand. " Ofcourse he does exist in Pakistan too, but he has less oppurtunities there , like you said we Pakistanis don't respect anyone's rights so you can say that we didn't give much rights to Satan either. " His breath-taking smile became fatal at the moment.

Kiran's face reddened but no one would notice because the off-stage lighting was not very bright, thankfully.

" Well I guess we don't have much time, if necessary we would talk more about the topic later, but thanks Sameer, for your participation in the matter, I wish you luck in the future. " Professor hudson stood up from his chair and shook hand with him.

Sameer thanked him and then during the loud sounds of appraisal he left the stage. Intense sound of clapping from all over the huge seminar hall followed his steps. Every one had enjoyed today and even his teachers were happy for him.

" Mr.Sameer you were fabulous, how can you do that? I mean so much information and confidence, man wow , that was some nice piece of speech. " A blonde guy came near him and exchanged the greetings .

' Oh thank you, but it was not a speech, I just wanted to present my opinion " Sameer gave him a warm, welcoming smile.

" It was the coolest presentation I have ever attended. By the way I am John Roberts from England, your class fellow if you don't know me. How about a cup of tea ? " He looked very much impressed.

" Nice to meet you John , well sure " Sameer accepted the offer and together they began to walk towards the main door of the hall leading them towards outside. In their way, they passed a group of girls.

" Hey man she is here, this gal's remarks were practically attacking you during the presentation, you know that ? " John's comment made him look at the group. Yes she was there, Kiran. She saw him too but instantly changed the direction of her glance.

" All guys are alike " Her loud sentence at his back followed by female laughters, stopped his feet.

Smiling, he slowly turned to face her, pouring his deep stare into hers. It was the first direct collision of two sets of unique eyes. His jet black, bright shiny eyes meeting with her light green eyes. Even their eyes showed a vast contrast .

Though she tried her best to remain unaffected externally, but inside, her heart skipped a beat. He had charismatic personality and so were his eyes.

" Hmm, I don't know whether all the guys are alike or not, but you know what ...... every girl is different. " His smile made the sentence more meaningful and then finally, he left.

Sameer fell on the bed as soon as he reached his room."Oh, this has been such a long, tired and exhausting day." Putting his head on the soft pillow, he thought.
He was just about to step in the simple, plain valley of sleep when two cute faces came in front of him from somewhere, washing every worry away, sweeping the tension of studies, cleaning the depression of physical and mental tiredness. Same two smiling faces ..... whispering sweet words in his ears, giggling in an innocent way.

"Sameer bhai, would you forget us then ? " A voice poured it's sweet essence in his soul. He recognized the voice immediately.

Mind and sense blowing fragrance guided him into that beautiful valley. He searched for the source of the fragrance here and there and then saw her. She was sitting on a rock. Her long, hairs undone, those colourful curls dancing along the wild air. She had her back on him.

"Hehe" A soft musical giggle, like someone is striking the gold coins with each other.

"Me ? Well you can call me as the Princesss of your dreams." She replied in a sensitive tone, never turning her face to look at him.

"Why do you disturb my sleeps , why do you bother me in my dreams, please answer me" Sameer begged to get the answer.

"Really? do I ?" She laughed. It was the most natural, feminine laughter he had ever heard. Still, her back on him , she never turned to show her face.

" Look here, I want to see you " He was really desperate.

" Na , na, you can't " She laughed again. God, it was not a laughter, it was a holy music which angels create to express their innocence and worship.

Unable to control himself any longer, he almost ran towards her, dying to see her. Reaching near her, he tried to hold her hand so that he could turn her towards himself. But before that she suddenly looked at him and he finally saw her face.

God.......... she was right, he was unable to look at her. So much light, so intense glow, shiny bright waves were emitting from her face, making his eyes blink frequently. She had the looks, features, qualities and those hidden properties which had an ability to allert all of his senses. Her hairs were so long, straight and beautiful that his eyes were unable to judge their exact length, shining and colour. There was a little, cute, traditional ring in her nose and long matching ear rings in her ears too, making her look like a a princess but he also noted this small but ultra-pretty feminine crown which was present just above her forehead, giving her similarity to some queen. Her wrists had golden bangles and bracelets in them.Well, she was simply gorgeous.

Sometimes, beauty is not the word to describe a person. Sometimes words fail to evaluate some things. Specially those things which can only be felt, like dreams and this dream was no different.

He woke up from his dream. His whole body was perspiring. He drank a glass of cold water to cool his nerves down. It was the third time that he saw this dream. It was a disturbing dream and yet so beautiful. The disturbing thing was this girl whom he had never seen ofcourse. Her strange face always used to make him curious and worried. He wanted to know her, wanted to meet her and yet he was not sure about even her real existence too.

He tried to sleep again, but there was no use. Then his thoughts collided with his memories. Those two cute faces came again.

" Kashish " He whispered their names , one by one. A smile came to his lips. Some people are so wonderful that even their thought makes us happy. He thought.

He had not forgotten anything about them. Not even little things. After Kisa and Kashish moving to a local town near Quetta, a distant city of Pakistan, they couldn't stay in touch with each other as they didn't have international call facility there. Also on his side too, the busy, mechanical life in USA hardly gave him much time to talk to them but it didn't mean that he had forgotten them. He remembered that day too when he called them for the last time. It was the seventeenth birthday of Kisa. But what made him really surprised was ........

" Sameer Bhai, you know what, I wrote a poem. " Her voice was emotional and youthful.

" Would you like to hear it now on the phone or should I post it ? See you would be the first one to hear it, I didn't show it to anybody yet. " Kisa asked, a little more careful and a bit scared too. It was her first creation and she didn't want anyone to make fun of it.

" Hmm, I don't think I can wait that long so let's begin. " He smiled. He took a sip of the coffee and changed the channel on the T.V. A typical "twinke star" or "Jack N' Jill" Poem. He thought, while smiling. But still he was ready to hear it as it was his dear cousin's first poem ever.

" What happened? I am here, tell me the poem " His mouth took on a cynical twist.

" Are you sure, I don't want you to make fun of it Sameer bhai, just forget it if you don't like it. I knew I could never be a poet . It's just what I wrote accidently " Her voice and way-to-talk was as mature like always.

" Oh no ofcourse, never think that, actually......" He wanted to say more but she had already started her poem on the other side.

" Any comments Sameer bhai ?" When he didn't reply for a long time, Kisa asked, still little afraid.

" Well I must say ..... it's simply great, very mature for your age" Sameer told her honestly. " Two thumbs up Kisa, keep it up, you are a born poetess. "

"Thank you so much Sameer bhai " Her voice was trembling with excitement and happiness.

Our little dear kids have grown up. While putting the receiver on the cradle, he had thought. It was about five years ago from now but still felt like yesterday. A smile came to his lips which was immediately cut off by the ringing of his phone.

"Oh ... listen Mr.George, I have told you like thousands of times. I don't need your damn credit cards, so PLEASE leave me NOW. There is other language too besides that of money's . Learn to understand it , bye for now. " He dropped the receiver back on the craddle and shot his glance on the watch. It was morning time now.

" That was not very right thing to do Sameer " Sara said in a complaining tone as soon as they met in the canteen, next morning. She was his only close female colleague in the university. A very nice, modest and good muslim girl from a Pakistani family. She was born and raised here in the state of Miami and yet she was proud of her Pakistan, her religion and roots.

" What did I do like that? " Sameer smiled. He had much respect for this nice and honest girl.

" You insulted us in front of all those officials and it's really hurting when you know that those guys were non muslims and non-Pakistanis and you were insulting your own people while all of them were pretty enjoying the scene" Sara was feeling anger for the first time.

" So you take that as an insult? I see, well, that's funny" He laughed sarcastically.

" Our double standards. We actually set practicals examples of what I was saying there. I just explained it "theoritically" while we people do the same things " practically" in front of them. Why so shocked , hmm? He asked in serious tone.
" Don't you all Pakistani girls in the universities here wear jeans, trousers and skirts ? and what about girls like Kiran , isn't she a Pakistani and Muslim? why do they shake hands with guys? and even go out with guys? Can she read and speak her language like a Pakistani girl is supposed to ? And I don't mean to offend you Sara but what about you too? what about your own double standards ? Do you regard this scarf of yours as your "Hijaab" . You go to cinemas wearing this , telling everyone that you're a muslim woman and then you see weird initimate scences there while still being in "Hijaab", a couple kissing , licking on the big screen, doing low sick things and you are sitting there with your eyes right way on the screen , and your , "Scarf" is on your head? " His voice got little emotional now.

" Well you're right about that. It's bad from religious point of view but still that doesn't mean that we have double standards " Sara shook her head.

" Okay, you tell me, I'm sure you go to religious events like Meelaads, Eids other cultural festivals.You also go to mosque pretty often, what do you wear then ? His changed his mood to normal and asked again, now smiling.

" A Pakistani dress . I mean Shilwar Qameez with veil or Dupatta " Sara was confused over his questions.

" See that's my point. So why, I mean why don't you wear this jeans and trouser there too? " Sameer's smile became deeper. Same artistic smile which was a hallmark of his expressions.

" Because those are religious meetings and we are supposed to wear a religious dress there" Sara said quickly. She was unable to understand the purpose of all these questions.

" Aha, you proved me right, that's what I was saying. I never see my religion and culture as two different things but you wear a veil, with shilwar qameez when you go to mosque and it means you consider your cultural dress as religious too " His breath taking smile became more killing.

" Sure " She took a long breath. Arguing with him was like putting yourself into a telepathic trance.

" Why do you wear Pakistani dress only at mosques or cultural events? why not all the time ? does Allah see and observe you only at mosques or religious events ? why such double standards ? "

" And sorry to tell you this is not the Hijaab , if you think that you're wearing a Hijaab by just covering your hairs with this pretty scarf, then I'm sorry I can prove you wrong right now, with the help of very valid proofs. " He was as determined like always.

" This scarf doesn't cover your upper front, it just covers your hair, and do you think it's a proper Hijaab? "

" Don't trust me blindly in this regard, trust yourself. I am sure you have read the Holy Quran. " Sameer said in a calm accent.

" But I believed that I am Islamically covered in these outfits" Sara gave her own opinion about herself.

" I mean it covers majority of my body, not much of my skin is showing " Sara told what she believed.

" Didn't you read or hear those two famous Ahadees and sayings of Holy Prophet that ," Be the curse of Allah on such women who are " covered" and yet they " naked" and what about the second hadees which says " Be the curse of Allah on those males who wear female-oriented cloths and those women who wear male-oriented cloths " . Now would you admit that this jeans which you're wearing right now is an un-disputable male-oriented cloth. Not even simple males but rough cow-boy-wear.". He smiled.

Sara listened to him with respect and concentration. She was one of those who have courage to realize their own mistakes and power to correct them.

" Until Sixtees when the West had this so called "sexual revolution", not even western women used to wear such cheap clothings . They had pretty feminine and modest clothings called as Maxis and very long skirts" . But In blind race of "equality " with men, they started to wear men's clothings. " Sameer added.

" But you know THAT time was different. Things do change with time" Sara tried to say more.

" What do you mean by that? Islam is the religion of ALL times ", but it doesn't mean that we should modify it the way we want. " Sameer's voice was unshaken like his beliefs.

" In Holy Quran , Allah says......
`It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His messenger have decreed a matter that they should have an option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, has indeed strayed in a plain error.' (S33:36) "

" But I thought my shirts and trousers are not very tight and are not body hugging. " Sara gave her last point.

" Okay then what about this verse.........
" Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their " Veils "over their bodies " S33:59
Sameer was well-versed on the topic.

" Why Allah didn't say that just wear lose fitting cloths ?? why he asked you to put a " VEIL" ? It's because no matter how hard you try, your T-Shirts and shirts can't hide your bosom and its swell. No matter how much you want but your cheap jeans wont hide the space between your thighs, your thighs and buttocks like shilwar qameez does. " He explained his point of view in the light of Islamic law.

" Besides, don't you have any of your own choice as a muslim ? when you come to Pakistan you start to wear Pakistani cloths, when you are in America you wear American cloths.... why? When you go to mosques and religious gatherings you wear Pakistani cloths , cover your head, and when you go to your school you have your head "naked" why? why you are always following others? " He asked the same question again.

" I don't think I am prepared for all this arguement, I just wanted to mention something you did in presentation. " She looked a little uncomfortable now.

" Sorry I got little sentimental, but you see religion and Pakistan are those topics which do need one to be sentimental and emotional about them because love without emotions is nothing. Sara you're better than the most other Pakistani girls here. Atleast you cover your hair, you don't shake hands with guys, you don't eat forbidden food, you don't attend their parties . Two thumbs up from me . I salute you for that. But both of us, you and me have double responsibilities. We have to maintain our religious customs and also have to transfer them to our next generations . But it's your life, and I don't have any right to indulge in your personal matters. You're free to spend it in a way you want " He smiled but now his voice was flat, not very emotional.

" It's okay, I respect you too, more than anyone else here " She gave him a real friendly smile.

" Hey, wow, Babar is here " Her voice gripped his attention again as she pointed towards a guy sitting at a table on their back.

" Yeah, he would love to meet you, but I guess he has already heard all of our conversation , hehe " She giggled as she motioned him to come to their table.

Babar was a neat guy with medium height and good personality. Sameer warmly exchanged greetings with him.

" It's been a pleasure meeting you Babar, If I am not forgetting Sara told me that you are doing residency here, when did you come here, in states I mean? Sameer asked after Babar sat beside them.

" About four years back, and finally got residency last year, " Babar said." I just heard your interesting opinion Sameer. You sure are right about many things. There were three such experiences which really made me feel uncomfortable at first but then gradually I got used to it. Ofcourse it's the West man, you have to compromise on lots of things. " Babar took a sip of his coffee.

" I would really like to hear about those three experiences of yours " Sameer was curious.

" Well...not that bad though. The recent one is about the hospital I'm working in, right now. Well they need me there sixteen hours a day you know. That's fine with me but unfortunately I can't pray regularly there. I used to pray very regularly before. But you know, they don't have islamic ablution system, and you just can't pray after using a toilet paper. Also when I was in Pakistan, I never missed Fajar prayers even in winters too. But you know the weather here. You need lots of guts to wake up in negative degrees and yet without the sound of Azaan. " Babar told them with a sad tone.

" Yuck.... yeah thats bad, I know that, anyway what about other experiences ? " Sameer knew all these problems.

" Last year I was spending my vacations with my uncle's family in London. Unfortunately he passed away and the most bad part was that he died on a weekend. Now islamically we should bury our dead immediately after the prayers and bath. But man we had to wait for whole two days. " Babar said. His accent showed hurt and pain.

" You can't bury your dead one there unless they issue you an authorized death certificate. Also, unlike Pakistan we can't take the dead body to our home or to the mosque. "

" I see, well what else you can do here, I am sure Allah does understand our problems " Sara shared his grief.

" Well the third experience was really hurting. When I was in Pakistan, whenever someone used to inquire about me or ask about my house address, my countrymen used to tell that this is Dr. Babar's house. But now here, though I have more money and every thing but when anyone asks about my name or address, people tell that this is the house where an Indian or an Asian doctor lives. You see, my indentity has been lost. Also I have noted that no matter how much money, status and luxuries you get here, whites and original american or britishers always think of you as someone cheap and low. Racial prejudice does exist here brother. " Babar told his experience.

" Besides, I must say you were right about that double standard thingie. For example you can see all those Pakistani "aunties" who themselves wear Pakistani cloths here but don't object when their daughters wear cheap western cloths" Babar added.

"I think you forgot that the only reason those Pakistani aunties wear Pakistani cloths is their age and weight , otherwise they are not less than their daughters " Sameer smiled. His sentence was followed by a loud laughter of Babar.

" Hey guys, dont' forget that a lady is sitting here too, so hold your tongues " Sara smiled back.

" Babar you are not done with your coffee yet ? Man, you'd better make it fast; we roll out of here in a few minutes, it's lecture time ! " Sara glanced at her wrist watch.

" Hey when you guys are gonna done with your masters ? I guess it's your last month here? " Babar took the last sips.

" Actually yes, theory papers have been finished, so now preparing for the Viva " Sameer replied.

" Excited you are. Are not you ? Masters in Sociology , wow not very common subject here " Babar smiled, standing up.

" It's thirty six B, twenty four and thirty eight buddy, damn sure about that, surely Linda has got the super model figure." Tom laughed.

" Man, look at her back. She likes to show its clasp too, good God, and it's push up kind, I'm not sure about the colour though". Nomi said, unaware of his own condition, lost in the looks of the girl in front of him. His eyes following her every movement.

" Do you think she's ready? "

" Ripe for plucking," Nomi said, smiling

" Damn, you guys are sick and crazy. You folks are nothing but a group of perverts and nympho-maniacs " The third man took off his sun glasses and winked at them, smiling meaningfully.

" Holy shit, that's a crazy joke. Amir, you might ask yourself exactly who the sick one is. " Nomi smiled wickedly, staring at him now.

" We are not,....well.... just reading an open book , haha, well every thing about her says " Touch Me " Tom chuckled , his eyes never leaving a group of girls walking at some distance away.

" Her shirt is so thin and mushy you can judge everything man, and by the way, she didn't seem to mind it," Nomi laughed, " In fact, I'd say she rather enjoyed it! "

" And who is this Paki gal with her ? is she Kiran? " Amir's eyes narrowed on a glamorously smart, good-looking girl wearing ice-blue fitting jeans and navy blue shirt which was clung to the ups and downs of her body, attracting his lusty spurts.

" Yes, she is Kiran, the most beautiful asian chick in town, but you can't even touch her, ever " Nomi's off-white teeths appeared between his dark lips as he smiled nastily.

" You bet eh? " Amir's clever smile became more deep. He, too, had had his eye on the curvaceous personality-plus Pakistani girl ever since he first saw her, and his instincts told him she'd date him if he asked.

" Yeah man, I know you have guts to seduce those chicks but this gal is not an easy dish. She is a cherry, I'm sure as a hell " Nomi smiled, looking at him in challenging style.

" Okay Nomi buddy, are you ready? How many bucks then? "

" As much as you want, just shoot " Tom was interested too.

" Yeah, I'm pretty confident and would take her to date soon to check everything and tell you then, " Amir replied, his eyes inspecting her every move, like an experienced hunter judges his innocent, ignorant prey.

" That's ridiculous, I could suck a million bucks for this duck "

" This gal is a tough dish, plus I have a feeling she hates asians, you know, so you sure ?"

" Positive, hundred percent " Amir made the deal.

" Okay then it's the deal, who ever wins, affords five thousand bucks plus a luxurious dinner in Bennigan's and then some jazz fun at Lemon's kiss, I love this new club in North Miami , O'kay " Nomi made his final decision , excitedly.

" Agreed "

" Phew, you've got guts man, let's celeberate the deal with a toast to the forth coming fun " Tom motioned them to walk toward the local pub .

" Let's see. I know she goes to Star Gym, in central Miami. I guess I would try to meet her there for the first time, " He ran the tip of his tongue between his lips. Amir had the primitive streak of a hunter who didn't accept being thwarted. If one approach didn't work, he used another, and another, until he had what he wanted.

His wish became true very soon. He met her at the Gym in the same evening. What really surpised him was that she knew him too. Being class fellows their friendship started very soon.

They even arranged some sessions of combine study at her place, preparing for the Vivas. Kiran was specificially impressed by his broad minded thinking, fun-loving nature and and positive approach towards women and their rights.

Their friendship got stronger and and stronger day by day and with in few months Kiran got so close to him that she didn't hesitate when he asked her for a dinner for the first time.

This was going to be easier than he had expected.

That was very special day for Kiran. She was going out with a man for the very first time. She felt excited and happy at the same time.

They managed to meet at the University after the classes were off. Though their exams had been finished but the whole Sociology department was attending some extra classes as Professor Hudson insisted them to do so. They stayed late that day. Talking and thinking of what was about to come. Then two guys came to meet them. Amir introduced them as Nomi and Tom. She knew Tom and didn't like him at all. Linda had told her about his lustful eyes.

"Kiran you stay here, we just have to do some important talk, I'll be back in few minutes. Sorry for your patience" Amir excused.

" No problem. I'm here on the stairs but make sure you return soon cuz it's getting late here" She smiled .

While sitting there, waiting for him two figures got her attention. She reallized them. One was Kashif and the other was Sameer ofcourse. Both of them were sitting on the next corner and It seemed to her that they were preparing notes.

" Poor Pakiz, studying so late to get some more bucks for their job" She thought and smiled.

Amir returned after half an hour. He looked a little sleepy in his gait but she ignored.

As soon as she got into her car with him, a familiar unpleasant aroma filled her nostrils.

" Well, Amir, do you drink ? " This aspect of him was new and strange for her. She had thought of him as someone who was different in every way.

" Well not much, just occasionally, I usually prefer red wine, but sometimes even Vodka too, haha. It's fun baby." He laughed sleepily, gazing into her eyes with keen interest.

She felt another wave of disgusting smell in his breath. She felt scared and sick at the same time.

" Well, I'm sorry but I need to go " She bit out. Her heart fluttered in alarm.

" Why Kiran, see it's our first date so should be special dear " Amir's speech was slurring at the moment. A chill ran down her spine.

" It's not the kind of date you're thinking. I wanted to go out just to understand you better. I think I got the answer very soon. "

" I said, I'm sorry, we would think about it some other time. Right now I really need to go. I will pick you next time, you too may go now "

" Don’t touch me, you yankee scum! " Kiran yelled out. His alcohalic breath was making her sick.

His next couple of sentences was so nasty and dirty that she could hardly believe her ears. She was nothing for him, just a doll, a sex doll to satiate his animalistic lust. A wave of nausea cramped her stomach. She was hardly able to believe her ears that the elegant sophisticated, ' broad-minded ' Amir would use coarse expressions like those.

" Take it easy darling. You need to relax baby, just relax and enjoy " An animal growl came from his throat.

" Fuck off, you asshole " She yelled with all of her power.

She tried her best to withdraw her arm from his powerful grip but the next instant, he was trying to spread himself over her body. Kiran wanted to breath but couldn't, she wanted to scream but didn't find the power. He was too heavy and strong for her. She had never felt so helpless in her whole life.

" Did you see her ? She is no different. I am sure, tonite she is gonna sleep with this rich guy, Amir. He's a son of my father's friend. His father is a famous lawyer here. " Kashif pointed on a couple which was walking towards the parking area located few feet away. His voice caused Sameer to lift his head and look but then without saying a word he bent it again on the book they were reading. For some strange reason he felt sad for her.

They were both preparing notes for their final Sociology thesis. They continued to do their work then suddenly, after few minutes, a feminine scream broke their concentration.

" Yeah I guess it came from the parking lot " Kashif said a little evenly.

" I think we should go and check. There's something wrong with the couple. " Sameer left his books.

" Come on buddy it's not Pakistan. Mind your own business, don't indulge yourself in other's matters." Kashif tried to stop him.

" Stupid you're, they're just having some little fun. " Kashif tried to smile.

" Fun? " He felt like little confused. " But yaar It doesn't sound like that, I heard her scream. "

He looked at him for a moment, his mind fighting with his heart. And then his heart won. Ignoring Kashif's suggestion, he decided to check them out.

He ran towards the Parking area which was was very silent as majority of the students and teachers had left.

There was a single car parked under the shades. Its lights were off. There was no one around the car, just the dark night spreading its shadows over there.

Carefully, Sameer reached near its front door and then heard a sharp gasp again, followed by a muffled feminine scream.

Taking the risk of invading someone's privacy, he put his hand on the handle of the front door and opened it up but the scene he saw inside blew his minds off.

There he was, Amir, trying to spread his huge body over Kiran's who was protesting with all her might. Blood was running down her chin and her shirt had been slipped from one of her shoulders.

Seeing this, warm blood began to flow in his whole body. A typical Pakistani " narrow minded " man emerged from some place situated deep with in his being. Same Pakistani male who couldn't see any man taking advantage of any woman even if she is his enemy. Sameer grabbed one of Amir's arms and pulled him out of the car with force and then without giving him a second, Sameer's left hand struck him on the face. His hand was so strong that it left its marks on his cheeks. Amir tried to slap him back but Sameer caught his hand in the middle and pushed the drunk youth towards the wall with force and pinned him there. Like a wild, blind bull Amir ran towards him, waving his arms.

" Hmm, so you need something else " Sameer's body turned itself away from Amir's swaying figure, and yet without seeing in Amir's direction, Sameer raised his left leg in a fast, strong motion, making a rapid circle in the air. His powerful back-kick struck Amir right on the jaw. It had so much potential that it lifted Amir a feet above the ground, crushing him back with the wall and then he finally fell on the ground, unconscious.

It all happened so fast that it took a while for Kiran to gather her breaths and to gain power to speak. " What...what happened to him ? Her throat was completely dry, her tongue tried to moist her dry lips but failed. Her voice trembling with fear. Blood was running down from her bruised lip.

At her indication, Sameer sat beside the lying figure, and tried to listen for his breaths. " Well he is just senseless for a while. "

" Shit " A male voice caught their attention. Sameer and Kiran both turned to see the stranger. Recognizing him, Sameer took a relaxing breath. He was Kashif.

" Hey hurry up, leave him, you two get out of here instantly. I will take care of him. If someone sees you guys, you could get into a real trouble. " Kashif took Amir's limp body in his hands and checked for his pulse.

" Go Sameer go, we don't have time, go and drop her to her house safely. I will handle him here. Just keep this whole event as a secret cuz if someone finds out about what happened here, it will definitely cause Kiran's bad reputation. "

" But he needs to understand a real lesson " Sameer threw an angry look over the resting body of Amir.

" That will only mean scandal, " Kashif said quickly. Only then they realized he was right.

" Don't worry about him. Such guys are real coward. I think he has already understood but I will make sure he doesn't do anything like that again in the future. His father is a big lawyer, they might involve your name instead of his. Besides, he is a friend of my father too. Amir knows this and he won't do anything like that again because then I would inform his father. Now for God's sake, leave. " Kashif begged.

Both of them got into her car. Though her breaths were still unsteady, she tried her best to gain her remaining power and ignited the engine. She put it into the gear, backed it and then in a flash, their car left the place.

" Oh God..... " She gasped and took a long breath after putting the the car on the long, broad high way.

" What for ? " He had his eyes closed while his head was resting on the seat in a relaxed position. He was so calm that it seemed like nothing had happened.

" No it's okay. It was not new for me. I have been facing such comments and remarks since last six years. I mean the day I came here in the U.S " He said , but his eyes were still closed.

" But I attacked you even personally too. I won't move from here unless you accept my apology " Getting emotional, Kiran stopped the car.

" Why did you stop the car, are you crazy ? Isn't it better that now you have realized your mistakes ? Look you just need to relax at the moment, we can talk about the past later. Just drive to your home so that I can have my own way to my home " Sameer realized that her physical and mental condition was still upset due to the event.

" I was never mad on you, now please move " Sameer pleaded, looking into her beautiful, deep eyes for the first time.

Kiran smiled and was about to put the car in gear when a sheriff's car pulled up behind them. Rather than pull away suspiciously she waited as he got out and walked up next to her window. She rolled it down to talk to him.

" Yes, officer. What can I do for you? Anything wrong ?" She asked.

" May be. Could I see some identification please? Your drivers license, registration and proof of insurance." He asked.

Kiran shrugged and dug in her purse for her license and then in her glove box for the rest. All the while the deputy shined his light around inside the car. He paid particular attention to Sameer. She handed him the documents.

" Now may I see your identification please?" Kiran asked.

" What for, gal ?" He asked.

" Because you have not identified yourself to us.You could be anybody posing as a police officer. You have a legal right to ask for our identification, which we have provided you. We have a legal right to know who is asking the questions. You are required by law to provide us with such identification." Kiran said, confidently.

He took out his ID and showed it to Kiran. She saw it then nodded. The deputy took his card back and moved at the back of the car , throwing the light there too.

" Nothing. We've done nothing illegal. He's just an over zealous cop, an egotistical asshole who uses his badge to dominate people for his own ego gratification. I guess he'e just fishing for some crime. Just relax. I think our conditions made him more curious. " Kiran said, biting her lower lip.

" What is your probable cause for detaining us like this, Officer ?" Kiran asked.

" The present condition and a suspicious set of circumstances. You are parked on an isolated stretch of road at 11-o- clock at night with an asian man you are not related to. " He threw a sharp look on Sameer.

" If you have a specific complaint against us please inform us of what it is so that I may call my attorney, Mr. James Scott. " Kiran replied.

The deputies eyebrows went up again at the mention of the attorneys name. He swallowed something.

" Excuse me, Officer I was just enjoying the show quietly. But it seems you don't like that ? Okay Kiran, did I coerce you into performing illegal acts or violated your civil rights in any manner? Please answer honestly for the officer." Sameer asked, smiling.

" No. Not at all." Kiran replied.

" You're not making this very easy." Said the officer.

" First, it is not my legal responsibility to make your work easier. Second, I have provided all the information that I am legally required to provide. Third, this is a free country. There are no laws making it illegal to sit and talk, parked off a public highway. In fact it's covered under our rights to freedom of assembly. Now we were not blocking traffic, we are not on private property, I broke no traffic laws, I have not been drinking and my vehicle is properly registered and insured. Beyond that you have no legal right to detain us." Her voice didn't show even a little trace of fear.

" Now, any other information you desire? For the past half hour we have been sitting here honestly answering questions within the legal limits of our constitutional rights. We have not been conspiring to commit any crimes, but under the fifth amendment, we would not be required to provide you with that information if we had been. " Kiran's accent became a little uneasy now.

" But perhaps your superiors will find your explanation sufficient enough to justify your detaining us for a half hour and making us wait in the cold while you played your little ego game. Now will you unblock my car so that we will be on our way ? "

" Lady, this sort of attitude isn't going to help you." he said.

" Do I need help?" Kiran asked.

" You aren't being very cooperative. I have a legal right to ask you questions" said the deputy.

" Within the limits of the constitution, you have no right to ask about our private affairs." Kiran replied.

" Affairs?" he asked, raising his eyebrows.

" If you don't know the meaning of the word, look it up. I am not legally required to give you a lesson in semantics." Kiran said.

" You were sitting on a dark stretch of road for no apparent reason, with your torn cloths and blood running down your chin and this guy was sweating too . You did not have your seat belt and emergency blinkers on as a safety measure. It could be a rape or even an murder attempting case." replied the officer.

" No, that is not what happened here. There was no visible probable cause to justify this intrusion into our private lives. There was no legal reason to detain us as we have been. If my lawyer finds any specific violation of our civil rights from my deposition then I fully intend to file charges. Now please unblock our path so that I may safely proceed about my own business." Kiran's looks and acts were still unaffected by the cop's presence.

" If you have done nothing wrong, why would you need a lawyer, lady ?" asked the officer.

" Not for myself. I was referring to my filing of harassment charges." Kiran said.

" Well " deputy looked at both for what seemed for hours and then released a deep sigh.

" You may go now Ma'am. My apologies for your inconvenience Ma'am." said the deputy.

She wanted to say much , but the time, her condition and the cirumstances didn't allow her. She finally put the car in the gear and headed to the main high way leading to the heart of the city.

" That's why I was telling you that don't stop on the main high way. We were just caught in the middle of very severe situation. " Sameer said.

" Oh man, we humans, such an unpredictable things we are , aren't we ? I never thought Amir could be like this " She sighed.

" Yes we are, we all are in some aspects. Did you ever see onions Kiran, I mean from inside? "

" What do you mean, yes ofcourse I have " For the first time she seriously doubted about his mental condition, he was talking about onions in such a serious condition.

" Well don't doubt my mentality, I was just giving an example. When you cut onions, you start from the the outside and then proceed to the inside and yet all the layers are alike. Superficial and deep aspects are the same. But for us humans, it's not the case " He smiled.

" "Ah I agree " Kiran nodded. " Where is your home ? "

" Very near from here but I wanted to make sure you reach your home safely " Sameer said with a tone of concern in his voice.

" It's okay. I'm feeling much better now. Don't worry about me just tell me where is your place ? "

He told her the address. With in few minutes, she stopped the car at the front of his home.

" Well thank you for dropping me at my home " He said sincerely, pulling out of the car.

" And thank you too for saving me " She replied in a plain voice, looking at him with watery eyes.

" To be honest with you, I don't believe on friendship between opposite sexes. I mean friend is someone who is very free with you and I don't think I can get much free and frank with any unrelated female. It's my personal opinion anyway"

" You don't believe on such friendship or you can't afford it ? " She took her hand back.

" You can call me Kiran "

" Oh thanks for that. Anyway Kiran you know what, you're pretty confident. " He crossed his strong arms over his broad chest, smiling in a pleasant mood.

Her last sentence before her car left his place gripped his feet again but when he looked back she was not there.

Taimoor Khan searched for his daughter in T.V lounge but she was not there. Letting out a long breath he headed towards the only place which was left now. Her studio. His guess was right . The whole studio was drowned in darkness but a swaying shadow of a relaxing chair on the wall told him that she was there. He looked into the darkness , " Kiran, baita are you here " ? is everything alright daughter ? " He switched the lights on.

" Yes Dad, thanks " The swaying chair stopped for a moment.

" Okay Baita, take care of yourself, I am going to an Important meeting, UAE shipment is on its way and I have to make arrangements for the next delegation."
He switched off the light again and was about to close the door of her room when her voice struck his ears.

" Dad "

" Why did you leave Pakistan ? " Her voice was thick with emotion but sounded innocent.

" Yeah may be you're thinking why I didn't ask such a basic question before, right ? Simply cuz I never felt need for knowing the reason. Also because I never questioned myself but now I want to know who I am and why I'm here and you've got to tell me Dad " Kiran said impatiently.

He didn't say a thing, just stared at her face. Her behaviour was very strange today.

" There are some more things which I want to know, besides information about mom's parties and your business. May I have some knowledge about few other things too besides those details about ttock exchange, shipments, the effects of weather and this year versus previous years ? " Kiran's voice began to shake with emotions but she didn't stop.

" And what was my fault ? why you two didn't give me any brother or sister ? I have always missed someone at my home. Either a brother or a sister who could share my feelings, happiness and sorrows. With whom I could share my secrets . Someone I could fight with and play with. Tell me Dad why ? " Her voice showed lonliness.

" Your mother. She didn't want to have more children after you. She said it would effect her figure, her busy schedule and children do affect a woman's job and life . She wanted to give all concentration to her job and work . " Her father replied in a tired tone.

" Wow, so for her, children are less important than her Job ? I feel sorry to call such a materialistic woman as my mother." She looked angry, stern and deadly serious.

" And I'm her daughter, you forgot that Dad ? A formal hello on the breakfast table and then an occasional good-night in a week doesn't make her my mother. She is called as my mother just cuz she gave birth to me. Otherwise I never felt any special emotion for her. You know why Dad ? simply because she never gave me a chance or time to express myself. " Tears were running down her face.

" Well I was young. I couldn't find a suitable job there. I wanted to make money, after all I had the same right on the luxuries and facilities of the world like everyone else has and it seemed to me that I couldn't get fulfillment of all those dreams while living in Pakistan. "

" Wow, and then you married an American national citizen here , right ? A smart, gorgeous lady who never forgets to go to Gym and never affords to miss any nice social party. But yes what could she afford to ignore her only child, her twenty six year old daughter. " She blinked back her tears.

" But Kiran we never put any restrcition on you, you are free to do what ever you want providing you don't hurt youself "

" That's what I want Dad. I want you to put restrictions on me. Treat me like parents do with their kids in Pakistan. Care for me like them. Give me orders like Pakistani parents. Love me like you really care for me. I have always craved for your and Mom's love dad." She was getting hysterical now.

" I guess you should better take some rest now . It's been a hard, tough day at the university I'm sure , take care and good night honey " He closed the door.

" You'll never understand Dad, you'll never feel the way I feel, Oh God " She dropped her head on her knees, sobbing, trying to wash her anger and sadness through her tears.

" I went out with my girl friend last night, we had fun " John prompted, smiling.

" I see, if you don't take it as personal, may I ask is she your first ? " Sameer took the cup of tea to his lips.

" Yes ofcourse I loved them and so they did. We loved in every sense, and made it too. But don't think of it as a plain sex, I dont believe in casual sex, sex without love is dirty. "

" I see, well I was just thinking you loved three different women and never married anyone " Sameer smiled back.

" Well, I was not prepared for all those heavy responsibilities of marriage. Marriage binds you. You can't spend a free life then. " John's philosophy was not very strange for Sameer. He had listened the same things thousands of times here.

" And man would you believe I have been a virgin till my twenty first birth day " John added, laughing.

" Really? why so late ? " A sarcastic smile came to Sameer's lips which he hid immediately.

" Well, I was raised in a strict catholic family plus I was waiting for the right one, even then I wasn't prepared for physical relations but it was too much. Gosh, guys began to call me a fag "

" And besides, if you don't know I was married as well " John added roughly, gulping his tea.

" Yeah my wife was from Scotland. A real pathetic loser she was. She divorced me last year, but man now I'm
so goddamn glad that she divorced me." John's tone was very calm and firm.

" Well, shopping, jobs and having fun were the only meanings of life for her. I wanted to have kids too but she denied. And though we tried our best to make our marriage out but it just didn't work, anyway, it's over now " John stopped to take a long but cold breath.

" The only fault of mine was that I just loved to annoy her, haha " John laughed again, but Sameer felt that it didn't sound like a real one. It occured to him that there was something really missing in John's life.

" You don't need to be, I am much happy now, am passing independent life and I can have any thing I want. No restrictions, no reservations. About my ex-wife, who gives a shit, I believe on live your life the way you want " John smiled.

" Boy you didn't tell me about youself, I mean family and all that ? " John asked.

" Well I'm not married yet, though my mother always insists but I wanted to complete my education first. Just after a month, I mean after our results and degree awarding ceremony, I would leave for Pakistan. I guess they are preparing for my marriage. "

" When did you move here, in U.S, I mean " John wanted to know more about this man from Pakistan who was the most interesting person he had ever met.

" About six years ago. I was living in Lahore with my parents. Then my father got his transfer here in U.S. Though I graduated in Pakistan but decided to do graduation here in U.S too, taking Anthropology as my major and then started doing masters too. About two years ago, my parents moved back to Pakistan after my father's retirement. And now I am living with a family of my father's friend. " Sameer told him the details, taking another sip of his tea.

" Oh I see... I guess you have travelled alot in your life. About Pakistan, you would move there permanently, right ?" John asked.

" Yeah. I never thought to stay here in U.S for whole life. I have my own family, relatives and ofcourse my Pakistan there. My own customs, traditions and culture. "

" Wow, you know what, I always wanted to see your country. I mean eastern people are so much thoughtful and emotional. I love your traditions. I wish I could see your land and it's people. Hey I have an idea . " John's voice became excited.

" I have my Uncle in Pakistani capital city. I guess it's Islamabad ? He is a first secretary in British embassy. I was planning to meet him soon but what If I go with you ? " John looked at him with eyes full of expectations.

" Sounds wonderful. But I would suggest that don't visit Pakistan with too much expectations. Go there with your heart plain and clean as a slate. Observe it and feel the experience. "

" Don't worry, I already know much about Pakistan. After all it's seventh atomic power of the world. "

" Yeah and after all it was your british colony before 1947 " Sameer smiled harshly.

" Yeah man that was some mistake, anyway do you want me to do any special preparation for this Pakistan visit ? I mean anything I don't find there for myself ? " John asked, a special look of concern came on his face.

" Yeah there are many, but for the starters just keep a bunch of toilet papers in your stuff . "

Degree awarding ceremony went great, specially for Kiran as she got first class first. It turned out to be the most happiest and wonderful day of her life. Receiving admiring glances, greetings and congratulations from everyone was the nicest experience specially when Sameer met her.

" Congrats Kiran, you made it, you got whole eighty percent marks. I'm so pleased for you today. As a matter of fact, you should give me a treat now " Sameer greeted her honestly and with his heart. He did feel really happy for her today.

" Sure what do you want as a treat ? " She looked deep into his eyes, her spontaneous style changed the direction of his eyes from her face to the ground.

" Hey come on. I would love to give you one, after all, all of my folks deserve it now, their prayers being answered. " She laughed, softly pushing her long, dancing curls away from her fair face. Her features were almost supermodel
gorgeous and yet there was still a warmth and humanity to them.

" What about a nice dinner in Cafe Beethoven, hmmm? Famous for it's French, German, Hungarian,Spanish and Swiss foods. They make some really nice Hamburgers and pastries and believe me it's very cool out there. You will enjoy your stay and the treat too " She smiled. There were stars of hope sparkling in her deep green eyes.

" Umm sounds nice, Okay " Though he tried to resist but when he thought of leaving U.S next week, he agreed, ofcourse for the first and the last time.

He reached her place at 8:00 p.m sharp and then on her suggestion he left his car at her home and together, they left for Cafe Beethoven in Kiran's car. Cafe Beethoven was a really beautiful and glamourous place. Surrounded by long palm and coconut trees, it's large glass windows gave way to the wonderful Miami beech, bathing in the shiny moon light.

The porter welcomed them with a smile and nod of his head. Sameer stepped back to let her precede him into the restaurant. Inside was no different from the outside. The windows of this candlelit restaurant offered a panoramic views of the beautiful Miami beach. It was place for lovers. Soft light and softer music. Tables set discreetly apart, food and service faultless.They went straight to the central dining hall. It was all drowned in a dark dim blue light. Couples were sitting here and there, whispering secrets to each other. A wonderful and huge sound system was playing the notes of Kenny G's " Breathless " instrumentals. It was simply romantic and luxurious.

When they entered the dinner area, Kiran received the usual appreciative male glances . But there was a difference, for she received intent female glances too, as her companion was assessed and sighed over.

There were many tables set neatly in a well organized fashion all around the hall. Every table had a wonderful decorating equipment in it's middle. Burning candles at the centre of each table were adding charms to the beauty of this royal atmosphere. They selected a table in a relatively calm and silent corner. He settled her in a chair then took another seat for himself in front of her.

She wore tailored dark maroon, long but fitting skirt and blouse with lacy border that displayed her shape and figure. A pair of just-this-minute four-hundred-dollar mid-heel pumps completed the ensemble. Her neatly combed silky and straight shoulder length hairs were undone at the moment.

" Anything you like, except meat, ofcourse " He took a deep sigh and closed his eyes, tipping his head on the back of the chair. He was feeling tired again. It had been such a busy and long day.

" Why? You vegetarain ?" She looked at his shapely figure which was showing effects of regular excercise and balanced diet.

" Nopes, because of the haraam forbidden meat here, I only eat fish or vegatable when I'm outdoor. I have been here in States for last six years and never ate that forbidden flesh. "

" I see , well item number eight and forty three along with salad variety and some soft drinks" She told the desired menu to the waitress.

" I guess today, it's some special occasion here " And then her eyes got the answer of her question. She saw a lady sitting in the VIP, chief guest section. She was wearing a royal dress of french style.

" I see, so they have this French princess as their cheif guest today " She said.

" Yeah I think so, it means this place is very famous and special " Sameer replied, lost in deep thoughts.

" Ofcourse, that's why we are here " She smiled, caressing her hairs with her hand.

Another waitress brought them their spanish omelets with Italian salad with reen onions and peppers for omelets and some fresh mushrooms. Some orange juice mix, coffee beans and coffee creamer.

" Thank you bravo, can you tell me who's this french lady? " Kiran asked the waitress.

" Oh no, was just wondering" Kiran smiled. The waitress smiled back in answer and left.

For some time, neither Kiran, nor Sameer said a word. Sometimes, you search for words to start the conversation but don't find any.

" So tell me about Pakistan, its foundation and it's people " Kiran broke the silence finally.

" Well a long story. I would suggest that you should visit Pakistan now for your personal experience. Though naturally, many things have been changed but still we have preserved our culture and roots in its best form possible. " Sameer said.

" Yes roots. Those basis on which we founded our Pakistan after a long hard work and countless sacrifices. You know what Kiran, even very strong and big trees can't survive and persist if someone cuts their roots. " Sameer took the first bite of his dinner.

" Tell me which kind of advantages Pakistanis get while living in their own country and what were those basis you're talking about ? "

" Okay I will tell you about those things in the light of history in a brief way. But you should have your mind and heart open to hear those facts as many Pakistanis living here don't follow the Pakistan foundation theory " Practically ".

" Okay let me explain. You know the reason on which Muslims founded Pakistan in 1947 ? It was two-nation theory, which stated that Muslims and Hindus are two separate nations. Different in every respect including their religion, culture, language, traditions and heritage. "

" Now you tell me one who has decided to leave Pakistan on permanent basis , how is she or he supposed to support the Pakistan foundation theory ? He or she practically rejects this theory ignoring all of its beneficial features . " Seeing her interest, Sameer didn't stop.

" See Kiran, The following were the major and basic reasons for Pakistan foundation.

1- To get a separate land for muslims which shall be ruled by a muslim governament.

2- To get a separate muslim society for muslims in which they could practice their customs in a completely different way from hindus and other non-muslims.

4- To get a piece of land where we can freely pratice what we believe and to prevent our future generations from every aspect of non-muslim society which might be harmful to our eastern and muslim origin.

5- To save our traditions and culture and other religious values. To prevent our culture from the bad effects of western society like from wearing cheap western cloths and eating forbidden food like the kind of meat which is common here in the West.

6- To save and protect our own language, national mother tongue which is known as Urdu, in such a way that all of us including our future generations too, could read, speak and understand it easily, frequently and fluently.

Now you tell me do you have all these features in your society while living in the United States of America ? " He finally stopped to see her changing expressions.

" Oh God, never knew that . So what do you think of such Pakistani people in the West? you probably think of them as bad people, I am a bad person right ? " She asked many questions at a time which showed her uncomfortable condition at the moment.

" Look Kiran, I respect you alot. As a lady, as a muslim, as a Pakistani and yes as a person too. That day, you could have easily offered your body to Amir and enjoy, but you protested. It shows your roots your blood, your yeast belongs to the same land to which mine does too. Our thinking and approach towards many things might be different but it doesn't make us enemies. " His eyes showing the reflection of his words.

" Don't ever think again that I don't respect you. I have the same respect for Pakistani girls living in the west like I would have for any girl living in Pakistan. I have seen many good familes here who practice Islam in very good form and keep themslves away from forbidden food and acts . And after all my family too, used to live here just few years ago. But my point is that if you call youself a Pakistani, be like one, dress like one, act like one, behave like one. "
When they were talking, no one could guess that while sitting inside this beautiful cafe, eating a candle light dinner in this romantic atmopshere this perfectly beautiful couple would be talking about Islam, Pakistan and the East.

" But I just believe in letting other people live their lives the way they choose to. My whole lifestyle is contrary to
what the most public would be comfortable with. But they don't live their lives for me. I damn sure don't intend to live mine for them. Nor am I going to interfere with others living their lives in a manner that society would find uncomfortable. To do so would be highly hypocritical of me." She said in a cold tone. " Beside it's my life and I am what I am " Her tone became typical.

" That's what I'm saying, Actually you won't be changed.... you would just try to be more original..... to be what you really and actually are. It would be more nice of you to live as an eastern girl living in the west instead of "pretending" like a western girl living in the West. This so called " free " western society accepts even homosexuals and nudists too, why they won't accept a girl wearing Pakistani dress in her daily life ? When a non muslim western doesn't feel any shame in coming in front of the whole world in just her undergarments, then why do you feel " shame" in wearing Dupatta at university? " His question left her answerless.

" But Sameer you must realize that it's not that easy, I mean every Pakistani girl studying here in the schools, universities and colleges wears western cloths " She tried to protest.

" You're right but let me tell you many girls here wear those cheap western cloths like jeans, skirts and trousers just because everyone else is doing the same here. But why ? dont you have any of your own choice? "

" Okay, suppose If I try to change myself in a positive way, what should I do ? " She was curious.

" Hmm first you should have courage, confidence and real guts to do that because not every girl has such courage or ability here specially while living in the West . Are you prepared to act, behave and spend your life as an "original" Kiran ? He wanted to judge the determination in her aim.

" Hmm well the plan might sound a bit tough to you initially but trust me, in the end you would feel like a true, pure graceful woman " He smiled.

" Okay, first start to dress like a real muslim woman. Dress like your own separate identity...so that other people could identify you as an eastern muslim girl among Kathy, Pooja and Linda . Don't eat meat at the fast food or any parties which you think are arranged by Non-muslims. Because here meat is not Halaal. Prefer fish or vegetables when you are out of your home. Third, act like a true, free Pakistani muslim woman, don't shake hands with guys... I know it would be hard for you at first, you might think that other guys would take it as an insult but what is more important to you? Your ALLAH or guys ? Fourth, please start to learn the national language of Pakistan, your mother tongue Urdu. I know you can speak it somehow but you are not very good at vocabulary. Also you must be able to read it too.
While he was talking, she observed him with concentration. How much different he was from Amir . She remembered Amir's eyes, always X-Raying her body, looking at different parts of her body with interest but then those daring eyes were compliment for her.
But the eyes of this guy...... he was talking to her directly and yet his eyes, hardly meeting hers, or looking towards her only once ....talking slowly, staring at the floor like he had some real respect for her. I like it, she confessed in her heart secretly. A quite unexpected feeling of proprietorial pleasure swept over her as she noted the admiring glances he received from several other women in the restaurant.

Suddenly, for the very first time, totally against her wish, a weird feeling came in her mind. Yes, this was the man she wanted in her life.

" OMiGod, sounds tough " Kiran wondered, lifting a forkful of warm , oniony omelet to her lips. The sharp bite of peppery salsa lingered on her tongue after she swallowed.

" Yes, it is and so is life. " He confirmed without hesitation. " Anyway it's your life Kiran. Spend the way you like it, as an answer to your question I just told you some essential features of Pakistani muslim women. " He added and smiled.

" Yes, if you're willing to change yourself in a positive way, it won't be so much hard as it might sound to you at this stage. " Sameer assured her in a calm and gentle voice.

" But I don't want to change myself for anyone, I am what I am. I may not have acheived much in your sense but I'm proud of myself and I don't want anyone looking down on me. "

" Exactly, don't change yourself for anyone, but for your own sake. Don't let yourself governed by those who don't belong to you. This is NOT real Kiran. Be what you're . Be true muslim, be real Pakistani. "

" Wow, man phew. You made my day, nobody has ever made me feel like you do. " Kiran felt really impressed by him, he was the first person who had ever impressed her in a positive way.

" By the way you didn't tell me to change in your way ? who knows that may be Kiran wants Sameer to be like other guys here ? " He smiled naughtily, teasing her for the first time.

" Nope, you should not be like others, you are different so keep yourself different ". Her accent contained something really strange, sudden and something instantaneous which made his eyes look toward hers.
So much "clear" eyes those were, like light, or when little sparkling bulbs twinkle in deep green waters. Her eyes looked even more startlingly beautiful in the light of candles. He couldn't fight with those eyes and avoided his gaze.

" Tell me about your life now, I mean where did you spend you childhood and early days, in texas? " Sameer tried to change the topic and the environment too.

" WOW, how did you know ? Well yes I was born in Texas, cowboy land land hehe, but hey you don't need to worry. I am not a wild rancher. Anyway, then we moved to New York, I was fourteen then and since that time, I have been there. It was only two years ago that Dad decided to expand his business upto Florida too. But how did you know about the Texas thingie man ? " She was totally astonished by his wild guess.

" Hmm, by your voice " He smiled . " Though it's New York cultured, but one could still detect a trace of a Texas drawl. You can't eradicate it entirely. "

" Those guys are thinking we are on a date" After few minutes of silence, Kiran chuckled as she noted the admiring and even some jealous glances of the people sitting here and there.

" Oh " Her remark made him to take a look of their surroundings and for the first time he realized that he was sitting with a very beautiful woman. Those envious stares of other women on her and admiring glances of the men present there, explained many things to him.

" Well I think we should better go now, it's about ten p.m now ". Finally, he threw a look on her face, a detailed one, to judge and compare his own ideas with the others. He was not much of a beauty admirer but he had to confess that, right then, she was looking very pretty and gorgeous. Infact a real gorgeous from head to toe. Even her smile was very sophisticated, neat and decorated with equally alligned, small, pearl like teeths. Not to forget about those twin-leaves-like maroon lips. At that moment, yes, he did see her like there was no one else except her and her charming personality.

" Sameer it's not so late yet, I would like you to meet my Dad. He'll love to meet you I'm sure if we catches him at home tonite " She said as they left the place.

" Okay lady, as you wish " He couldn't refuse any of her requests today and he just didn't know why.

The ride to her home was pleasant. If your companion is understanding, nice and friendly then even small and short journey becomes so lovely and beautiful that sometimes you wish that it should be a journey forever, an endless journey. Driving to her home, she thought.

Luckily, her father was at home. He did sound very nice to Sameer but somewhat professional and business minded too, which was not anything he didn't excpect.

Her home was very warm and inviting much like her personality, bright colors and lots of plants and comfortable places to be. She gave him a tour of the house. Then she showed him, her paintings in her self-made home studio.

" I like to play with colours " She pushed a long, soft curl away from her cheek with the end of her painting brush.

" And they like to play with you " Looking at her pink cheeks turning red, he said. The words just slipped even before he could stop them.

" God's it's hot today " She opened the big glass window of the studio, giving way to the cold and soft night breeze of Palm beach, Florida. Her gaze lingered on his averted face and watched the breeze rumple his silky, black hair.

" I'm going to fix a cold drink, what would you like ? Lemonade or iced tea?

There were about fifteen paintings hanging on the plain white walls of her huge home studio.

" Ever plan to acquire it as a profession too ? " He asked, as she returned carrying the drinks.

" Duuno, who knows , but first it's my interest " She offered him the glass containing cold lemonade.They sat down at the wooden table placed in the centre of the studio.

Once finished with the cold drinks, Sameer took a thorough tour of her studio, listening to her, as she told him briefly about each and every painting.They spent almost a half hour in the studio looking at the paintings, Sameer clearly impressed by the quality of Kiran's work. It all had a common color, a thread of sadness and, yes, undeniable overtones of lonliness that ran like a thread through every picture.

"Well, that's it," Kiran said as they came to her last painting.

" What do you think?"

" I think it's good. It's very good," Sameer managed to say, without too much of a catch in his throat.

" So tell me which portrait do you like the most ? " She looked into his eyes, trying to judge something.

" To be honest all are wonderful, what is your favourite by the way ? " He asked back.

" Haha, it's just like you are asking a mother which one of her children is her favourite " She laughed.

" Some times you understand one of your children better than the others, so any case like that ? " He smiled.

" Aha, well I really like this portrait " She pointed towards a painting of a middle age girl sitting on a ledge, cross legged, with her right fist beneath her chin, like she was waiting for something.

" Sameer tell me which kind of idea you get from it, I mean give me your opinion about this painting "

He observed the painting for few seconds. It looked mysetrious and yet so simple. " This painting is beautiful. I like realistic art, easy, universal and yet so mysterious. Abstract art often doesn't present life in its original form. Well this portrait of yours, shows a woman. Hmmm, looks like she is lost in some deep thought or is she waiting for someone. But she's not sure whether she'll be able to see the sun of her hopes rising or her only fate is " Always keep waiting for him ". He commented.

" Getting in kind of deep, aren't you? " Kiran smiled." Well you're right, the subject of this painting is "A Waiting Girl". She has a heart which is full of hopes and expectations. "

" Ah, you know it's an expecation which hurts. It's good to not to lose hope but sometimes expectaions become so much that if you don't get the wanted results, it hurts, it really hurts. So never expect anything from others unless you are sure of yourself and others." Sameer said.

For some reason, Sameer's opinion about the expectations made her unhappy, but she didn't show a sign.

That day, they talked about many things. For the first time he told her about his family. About his childhood memories and then about Kisa and Kashish. Their good times together, those little, cute fights. He even told her about that big old neem tree which had mark of their old friendship. Kiran enjoyed every moment of their discussion. She specially liked it when she heard the theory of his cousin, Kisa, about " love", that how one can " rise" in love. Kiran admitted that she liked and enjoyed his company. But the sadest part of their mutually pleasant time was when he told her that he was leaving for Pakistan next week.

" Don't know, right now I don't have any plans as such. I always wanted to spend my life in my own Pakistan and finally this wish is becoming true, hopefully. "

" Oh, well I should better leave now, it's too late " His wrist watch finally took their most wonderful time to an end.

Kiran walked him as far as the front door and watched him climb into his car and drive away.

" I would miss you Sameer.......more than you can ever think " She confessed in her heart and then closed the door.

Second ring of the telephone broke his dream. Trying to open his eyes, he picked up the receiver and then immediately recognized the voice. It was his mother's.

" Yes Ammi I am alright, what about you and how's Abboo ?" He inquired about his father.

" He's fine by the grace of Allah, Sameer we are really waiting for you. Here we have a marriage coming in the next month. Faraz is getting married with Rida, you remember her ?" His mother's voice was filled with hope of seeing him again after such a long time. Faraz was his first cousin, son of his mother's sister. He was two years younger than Sameer.

" Oh really ? Ofcourse I remember Rida. She was Kisa's friend and actually she was my friend too. I can't wait, I miss all those sweet weddings in Pakistan, Insha'Allah I would be there next week. " Sameer almost screamed with excitement.

" And Ammi, how are Kisa and Kashish and their parents ? I never heard anything about them since last two years." He imagined in his mind what their reaction would be when they saw him.

" Yes they have settled back in Karachi last month, so you'll be able to meet them too " His mother said.

" Oh I can't believe , it still seems like yesterday but I didn't see them since last eight years "

" Yes we did, but only for couple of times, then it stopped when they moved to Quetta. I can't wait to see them, I am sure both of them would have grown up so much , haha " Sameer never felt so much happiness in last few years.

" Yes Kisa should be twenty three now... and Kashish is nineteen " His mother told him.

" Wow , just give them my best wishes if you ever meet them during this time "

" Sure I would , Sameer we have so much plans for you, I mean me and your father, we are also well prepared for your marriage. I have started searching bride for you, tell me if you liked any girl in U.S " His mother wanted to know.

" Oh no Ammi, didn't like anyone in that way, so don't worry. About bride, well I have complete trust on your choice whoever you choose. " He smiled.

" Okay then see you next week here in Pakistan insha'Allah, don't forget to call before you leave , okay? and please take extra care of yourself "

" Yes Ammi, you too, say my salaam to Abboo. Allah Hafiz, see you in Pakistan "

" Hey Kiran, baby we are waiting for you. Let's get together, its' weekend night, and above all tomorrow is Valentine's day so we arranged a little slumber, would have some dance, music and " fun " films you know some really cool movies , hehe , tonz of funz " Linda's excited voice was non-stop as soon as Kiran picked up the receiver.

" But why ? and what about this guy Amir ? you were planning a date with him last week ? " Linda wanted to know everything.

" To be honest, I don't want dates, sex and fun. I want to know how much important and special I could be in a real man's life." Kiran replied in a tired voice.

" I have noted that you don't feel okay since that last presentation of this Paki guy , are you adopting so called eastern thinking ? " Linda giggled.

" Dunno about that. But such things like dates and stuff do sound and feel temporary. About films , I just don't feel interest in them since few days. To be more exact, films and such stuff sound kiddish to me now "

" Oh I see, our seet little gal has grown up now, hehe, anyway sweety I just want you to take care of yourself, and be happy "

She tried to gather her thoughts again which had been disrupted by Linda's phone. For the first time, she was thinking about her future in a different way. Now, she was trying to realize her needs and wants in a more personal way. She reasoned that she needed someone attuned to her personal life, someone with whom she could talk about the things that were important to her, someone who understood. A man who could supply that in a way no other man could. And who this man could be ?

But what on earth had happened to her ? He was as man as they could get, filled with everything she hated and feared: typical Pakistani, "narrow minded", extremist, masculine aggression, male power, unbending strength.

As soon she her head touched the pillow, his smiling face came in front of her. She began to smile too. Yes.....She needed Sameer. She wanted him. She craved for him. Involuntary, her hand reached the phone, she was almost about to dial his numbers when some thought stopped her. What if he doesn't like me? Then after some time she gained courage again and picked the phone but when her fingers started to press the numbers, something stopped her again.
" What if these feelings are one-sided only ? "

God....... just what am I feeling right now ? These feelings, such emotions are very new, strange but oh so pleasant for me. I am lonely and yet talking. There is nobody and yet I am here, smiling. What on earth has occured to me ? She thought to herself.

" Hehe " she giggled. Sameer you are a wonderful person. She felt as though this was a person who genuinely cared. Someone who had asked out of genuine concern and not out of superficial observation or 'politeness.' Someone who would listen and who would understand.

All in all it had been a distinctly odd kind of evening, especially for someone who was more used to spending her free time either alone in her studio, or dining out with typical friends like Linda.

Rolling from side to side on the huge Victorian bed, she tried to sleep but sleep was everywhere except in her room.

Yaad " Tum" aatey rahey, aik hook see uth'ti rahi
Neend " mujh" sey, neend sey " Mein " bhaagti chhupti rahi

Hours passed but not her thoughts. The wall clock in her bed room announced the time as 12- O- Clock. Today was the Valentine's day. She picked up a pen and started to write the letter .......

" Sameer Hasan...... I don't know how and where to start. I just know one thing that I've been
driving myself crazy with this all night long. A thousand times I wanted to call you and say
what was on my mind, but I knew I would never be able to find the right words. A hundred
times I must have picked up the phone and then put it down again, unable to finish dialing
I was so nervous.

Never in my life did I feel the way I did with you yesterday. Being with you was just so perfect.
It was like one of those moments you wish you could freeze and hold in place forever. I felt like
I could tell you anything and you would understand. I have felt so confused. So much of what you
said mirrored things that I felt inside. I felt like there was a part of me within you and a part of
you within me. I know it's crazy but being with you just made me feel so wonderful.

You know what Sameer, I only rarely pray to God, I never felt like praying for anything, I got
everything I wished. But for the first time, I ..... I , me..... I really need and want something from
God for myself. I want " You" from my God. This is the only prayer of mine Sameer and as it includes
you so I'd never have the feeling that Kiran prayed for anything cheap .

Overnight her life had taken a dramatic turn in a fresh direction, and all because of Sameer Hasan, or so it seemed.
She finally finished writing and switched off her bed lamp. " God, I have changed " It was her last thought and then a satisfied sleep hugged her. A sweet smile came to her lips even in sleep too.

Sometimes, fate answers your dreams even before you could see them completely. Kiran got the most pleasant shock of her life when she saw Sameer at her door next evening.

" I actually came here today to say Good bye to you, I'm leaving for Pakistan tomorrow. " He said as she guided him to the sitting room. Though she knew it before but his sentence caught her breath.

" It means I've got to tell you right now, I don't have much time" She excused herself for a moment to arrange some drinks for them. It was a perfect evening. She filled the coffee-maker and switched it on. Then she got a pitcher of iced tea from the stainless-steel refrigerator and poured a couple of tall tumblers and added a slice of lemon. She also arranged for a light refreshment. She put the potatoes in the microwave to bake, gave the salad a final toss and arranged the chilled melon with a squeeze of lemon in glass dishes.

When she was about to step in the sitting room, his words stopped her. He was talking to someone on his cellular phone. Though it was against her ethics to hear him like this but what made her to do so was her own name.

" Yes buddy, but let me tell you one thing. My ideal is not so much extra-ordinarily beautiful girl like Kiran. Her personality is charismatic, one which can completely arrest many. I never saw such a beautiful contrast of attractive looks and mature mind, but still my heart didn't develop those emotions and feelings which are known as " love" and it's not necessary that a guy like me would fall in love with a very beautiful girl. Plus I don't see or feel those emotions in my heart for a girl like Kiran, I mean she is nice but our mentality, our thinking is almost opposite to each other. "

Her heart contracted.
His every sentence was like a hammer on her heart and mind, knocking her senses out. She almost threw the trey containing coffee cups. It seemed that someone was suffocating her soul. She ran towards her room, sobbing and crying. She fell on her bed, powerless, unable and afraid to move. Someone had shattered her dreams even before she could see them fully. Continous streams of tears found their way through her closed eye lashes, taking away all of those fresh, wonderful dreams and fantasies which had yet to be fulfilled.

" Oh God , I didn't ask for anything more. I just wanted one thing " She put her wet cheeks on the pillow, sobbing.

As she rolled her cheeks on the pillow, she saw a rolled piece of paper beneath it. Seeing the paper, a weird but most sad smile came on her lips. She took the paper in her hands, wiping her tears with it and then after reading it for the last time, ripped it apart into many pieces. It was her letter to Sameer. Last night, she had opened her heart for him in the same letter. Now, She treated the letter in the same way like her heart had been. Broken into pieces. There was no use of showing it to Sameer now.

It hurts to love someone
and not be loved in return,
but what is most painful ......
is to love someone,
and never finding the courage,
to let the person know how you feel.

Tears formed in large droplets and gathered pace as they streamed down her cheeks. She slumped forward, propped her elbow on the bed and covered her face with her hand as she wept again and again. Then remembering something she hurried into the wash room and poured tons of water over her face, wishing it could wash everything away. But it didn't clean anything except her external tears. Fighting herself, she gathered courage to move in the sitting room again. He was there, waiting for her.

" Nopes " She tried to avoid his look. But the final moment had come. She could not prevaricate further. She felt tears of pain and frustration prick at her eyelids.

" Look, I don't know but if you have heard what I was just telling John then I'm sorry but well it was the truth. I explained it to you in the beginning that never expect anything from me . It's an expectation which causes so much hurt and....." He tried to explain.

" What do you mean Mr.Sameer ? huh ?" Her sudden change of accent, style to talk and tone astonished him for the moment.

" Who am I for you ?? Who gave you this right that you decide about my feelings without even asking me ? She nearly exploded.

" Kiran let me explain .... " He tried to sooth her.

" I don't need any explanations Mr.Sameer Hasan. Now I know which kind of person you are. Human emotions mean nothing to you. What you can see in the whole world are your own ideals, your own values and feelings. I never thought one could be so selfish. " She yelled, getting angrier by the second.

" No....no... " The pained truth of his feelings for her reflected in her eyes as she dragged her gaze up to his.

" You care about me only when it suits you. I'm nothing for you but just an ordinary girl. I don't need your sympathies for the sake of " humanity ". I never thought that this man I loved is a heartless, insensitive, callous brute " She hurled at him but realized her mistake immediately. God, what she had said.... she " loved " him ?

Her sentence changed his expressions. Involuntary his eyes mashed with hers. But he couldn't look into her eyes for a long time as there was something irresistible in those green eyes. Sometimes eyes are like a mirror to your heart. They reflect your emotions, feelings and thinking. Here eyes presented the same example. Pleading, sobbing and crying for him.

He didn't say a word then. He just looked at her with genuine sadness in his eyes. With unsteady, short and slow steps he walked his way out to the main door of her house.

The urge to run after him impelled her feet forward. She reached the door and saw him. He was getting into his car.

Her nostrils flaring in and out rapidly, her breathing heavy and fast. She put her right hand on her mouth, and looked at him like she want to absorb his sight for the last time. Like she would never see him like this again.

He finally climbed into his car, started the engine and then putting a final glance at her, moved forward.

After he had left, she felt helpless and powerless. She leaned her head against the door and fought the wave of weakness that hollowed her stomach and turned her knees to water.

" You know what Mr.Sameer Hasan " She began to say in a trembling , husky voice. " A silk worm does know that he would finally die making silk and yet he keeps doing that because it's his instinct, his nature. We girls do know that while decorating our eyes with dreams , our own eyes often get injured and yet we do that . Simply because its our nature. " Talking to herself, she put her head down on her knees.

A sad thing about life is ...
when you meet someone
that means a lot to you,
only to find out in the end,
that it was never bound to be ....
and you just have to let go

" Jeez, Sameer, you look awful, are you okay?" John asked with a concerned look. Both of them were present on the departure terminal of the Florida International Airport, Miami.

" Why do you say that? Infact I'm really glad today. After all I'm going to my Pakistan after six years "

" But you don't look much happy, well atleast not at your heart , probably because of yesterday's incident with Kiran. "

Sameer didn't reply this time. He just continued to put his stuff in the baggage trolley.

" Most probably you're thinking how nice and wonderful it would be if she could come here to see you off, right ? "

" Hey, how's it goin'?" A feminine voice appeared at their back.

It was familiar, unique and heart-touching voice. Yes, he could recognize this voice in thousands of sounds. Sameer turned around impatiently. For an instant he couldn't believe his eyes.
Yes, she was there with a smile on her lips but tears in her eyes. But what surprised him most was her "original" form and her looks. For the first time she impressed him by her looks too. She was wearing a royal blue kurta shilwar suit of organza with matching dupatta which was very properly placed on her upper front in traditional " V "shaped style. This suit was hiding her body in a nice manner and yet adding extra charms to her organized personality. Her neatly combed hair was undone. Traditional indian eye-make " Kajal " was bordering her big, beautiful eyes like an expensive show-case, making her face and her special eyes more prominent. There was some specific mind-blowing fragrance emitting from her which was very particular for her. Pakistani " khussa " saleem shahi shoes decorated her fair, perfect feet. She was looking like an eastern princess and yet not so formal.

" Well I never thought that Sun could rise in the West too. " It was the first sentence which escaped his mouth after long moments of silence.

" Well Sun is always the same but places are different. " She smiled with all her might.

" Anyway, just thought we should say good-bye to our cute Pakistani man. " She said, exchanging greetings with John too.

" That is such a sweet and loving thing to do. It speaks volumes. Thank you so much Kiran " His voice got emotional.

He walked few feet towards her. Reaching in front of her, he looked into her eyes. For the first time, neither of them could steal the glance. Their eyes dead-locked on each other other with nobody speaking even a word. Just their eyes talking. Few more moments passed, then he saw her thick eye lashes began to tremble. Slowly, a tear trickled down her face.

" You know what Kiran......." After some moments of complete silence, he finally gathered his nerve to say something.
" Tears are such a weird and yet wonderful things. So transparent, so clean and clear and how neatly they clean us from shame, dirt and sometimes even from pain too... "

" But Sameer Hasan. Some pains are not physical. " She breathed back. " They are eternal and spiritual and there is no remedy for such pains. Such pains only get worse by time. Anyway I just wanted to say nice wishes to you, may you get what you want for your life and may you always keep smiling like this " She tried to smile again.

" I would like to say one more thing if you could listen. " He wanted her permission to say more.

"The other day you said you love me, which kind of love is this ? " His voice was gentle and yet firm. " When we love somone we love everything attached with our beloved, his relatives, his surroundings, his country. You are very well-educated, an American national but that doesn't necessarily mean that you are an ideal girl . All I am trying to say is that it's just a temporary emotional involvement, not anything bad but not an eternal thing either. Very soon you would realize the difference between our thinkings and natures. " Said Sameer.

" I won't comment on that Sameer. But I have made my mind for one thing. I would definitely change myself in a positive way . I wont change myself for anyone, but for myself , for my own....for my religion...for my faith.... for my real culture, for my customs...for my originality. " Her confidence, her determination showed how much ambitious she was.

A lady announced that the final time of their flight's departure was near. Against his wish, he held out his hand in front of her, involuntarily.

" Hey you forgot, we Pakistani girls don't shake hands with boys, practice what you preach Sameer Hasan, hehe. " She giggled.

" Ooops Sorry. " He took his hand back. "Just couldn't control myself." He smiled.

" Khuda Hafiz Sameer, may Allah keep you happy always, " Tears of sincerity began to flow again.

"Allah Hafiz Kiran and I promise, I would visit you here whenever I get chance, please take extra care of yourself "

I lived on your promise as I thought of it as lie
If I could trust you, happiness could make me die

" And the last thing Kiran, but not the least. Never feel disappointed....because those who really believe on God... on Allah, they never feel disappointed, no matter how bad the conditions become. Allah hafiz, finally ! " Saying the last words he motioned John to move.

She stood there, watching them leave. Sameer began to walk towards the boarding tunnel, but waving his hand at the same time, never losing an eye-contact with her till the last moment. She waved back. A sad smile playing on her lips. Finally as both of them entered the tunnel, the dark black glass door closed in front of her, separating him from her. Perhaps forever !!!

Giving someone all your love
is never an assurance that they'll love you back,
don't expect love in return,
just wait for it to grow in their
hearts but if it doesn't,
be content it grew in yours.

Once in the air, Sameer forced himself to relax. It was going to be a long flight, no point staying wound up. John made himself sleep, mainly to pass the time, but also to avoid the inevitable jet lag as best as he could. Finally, several hours later their plane touched down in Karachi. Sameer's heart began to pound again. It was an early evening of a mid summer here. They made their way through the terminal, collected their baggage, and then spread out. Sameer saw some passengers being met by friends or relatives and some having emotional reunions with loved ones. Seeing such events, he felt a pang of regret for not telling his parents the exact time of his flight. But it disappeared when he reminded himself how much they would enjoy his surprise. They found a taxi, and told the address.

While on their way to the home from airport John heard a weird sound .....which was awesome and yet so pleasant.

" What's this, how's this sound ? " The sound astonished John.

" This is the same sound which Armstrong heard when he put his feet on the moon for the very first time" Sameer smiled meaningfully.

" Oh you mean...... ? "

" Yes...Its Azaan ...call for prayers "

" Greetings .... its the indication that now, you're in Pakistan" Sameer said, smiling.

"So Mr.John Roberts........................ Welcome to Pakistan "