Akram had brown hair and deep brown eyes, and if one observed closely, he bore a striking resemblance to a distant hero from an Asian comedy film. His smile was as warm as a dignified summer, radiating an effortless charm. And he adored Saaira with all his heart—or at least, that was the display he put forth.
Saaira ran towards the open car door, pausing to smile. The world, in her eyes, was a sweet confection, a swirling candy sphere that she saw reflected in Akram's gaze. She was as dumbfounded by his aura as she had always been. Just then, Vikram stepped forward, extending a hand and beckoning her over. With a lighthearted laugh, Saaira ran into his arms, their smiles meeting in a joyful reunion.
From a distance, Aasiya watched in silent despair. There was something about Akram and Saaira that unsettled her—a perfect couple since high school, the recipients of the 'Cutest Chemistry' award by Teen Daily—yet something always felt amiss. And Aasiya had always sensed it.
Akram caught sight of Aasiya's lingering gaze, her expression lined with concern. With a grin, he gestured for her to come closer.
"Kya haal hain, Chutku?" he greeted playfully. "Caught a fish today?" he added, laughter dancing in his voice.
"I would never commit such a crime, Akr." Aasiya turned her gaze towards the sea and sighed. "This body of water is the only sanctuary of peace left in this world. The only entity that remains pak after all the filth we impose upon it."
Akram chuckled, glancing at Saaira who was still wrapped in his embrace. "Remind me again why she doesn't teach environmental sciences?"
Saaira laughed and reached out her hand towards Aasiya. After a moment of hesitation, Aasiya took it.
"Saad isn't here yet?"
"He's on his way."
The distant hum of an approaching car broke their conversation. A black Hilux pulled up, its tires skimming against the sand before coming to a smooth halt. Saad stepped out, effortlessly adjusting his hair before slipping on his sunglasses. With an easy stride, he made his way towards them, waving at Akram before swiftly pulling Aasiya into his arms.
"Hello, beautiful ladies… and Akrayy, how's it going?"
"I'm good, Saadayy," Akram grinned. "Nice ride. Color coordination was a solid idea, wasn't it?"
"Ah, yes, my brother-in-arms," Saad smirked. "You know, Sair, we've always matched in everything—grades, hair, eyes. I wouldn't be surprised if we even wore the same color underwear as kids."
Akram burst into laughter, joined by Aasiya and Saaira.
"People used to confuse us as brothers or twins."
"And now, we're married to the two most beautiful best friends to ever exist."
"Another perfect match," Akram added, and laughter rippled through the group.
Saad turned to Aasiya, his voice softened by affection. "How was your day at the beach, my love?"
"Amazing," she sighed. "The sea water was a bit chilly today."
"Mhmm." Saad watched her with pure adoration, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead.
"How about we all go for ice cream?" he proposed. "It would do this scorching summer some justice."
"A wonderful idea, Saad. What do you say, Akram?"
"Yes, let's go," Akram agreed. "Saaday, fire up the car and take Aasiya with you. I'll bring Saaira."
"Alright, let's roll."
As Saaira took Akram's hand and walked towards the car, Aasiya watched from a distance, her gaze clouded with pity and regret. They were as radiant as dancing sunrays—a couple bathed in golden light.
Yet she alone knew of the darkness that orbited around them.