The more I see Haider Masood, the more I’m convinced that he’s distinctly similar to Christian Grey. Let’s put aside all the fantasies, and focus on his character: his personality, his control, his mannerisms, his unassuming charm, his urge to feed Aiman… Need I go on? The pace has finally picked up and today’s episode had so much going for it. Aiman has accepted her new life and the perks that come with it. Haider has groomed her in so many ways- she is no longer afraid to speak her mind and express her feelings. Sajeela’s entry didn’t strike her as unusual although she did sense the drama that came with her arrival. Almas and Aiman live under the same roof but their interactions are to a bare minimum. Sajeela’s return was for her own selfish reasons- one glimpse of Haider dropping Aiman home triggered her jealous button. She tried to stir Almas with her petty thoughts about Aiman who comes and goes as she pleases without any restrictions whatsoever. Again, Almas stood her ground but I’m just not feeling it. It seems almost as if Almas is faking it for the sake of putting up appearances and one fine day, she will reveal her true, vicious side. Maybe the sisters aren’t that different after all!             The news of Sajeela’s return disturbed Haider but I’m glad he didn’t throw himself a pity party. Instead, he took a moment to gather himself and resumed his routine. Aiman’s presence probably eased some of his pain- she is his best friend and gives him some relief from his mundane life post his divorce. Either that or he’s really good at suppressing his emotions. I admired his acceptance of the entire situation- it was rather awkward for Taufeeq to have “the talk” with Haider but Haider took it in a very mature manner. Furthermore, even though Aiman tried to press him for more details about the circumstances that led to his divorce, he declined to indulge in mud-slinging. Aiman was inconsolable when she found out that Sajeela was Haider’s ex and she found her refuge with her friend Rameen. Haider’s concern when Aiman was ignoring his calls and his anxiety at finding out Aiman was planning on spending the night there, clearly shows that his feelings aren’t restricted to those of friendship. Aiman is fully aware of her feelings but Haider has firmly retracted in his shell after his failed marriage. On the surface, he seems unaffected but the fact that he is not open to love shows his insecurities. His relationship with Aiman was one that developed out of a sense, an obligation rather of empathy. Men have an inherent need to become saviors and Aiman needed to be rescued- to be set free from the thoughts that clouded her mind. Dosti kab mohabbat me badalgayi pata hi nahin chala… With Haider taking the lead and dictating what Aiman should and shouldn’t be doing, Aiman felt strong once again and gave Sajeela a piece of her mind. Knowing Sajeela, she’s not one to forgive and forget and now that she sees Aiman as competition, she’s going to be causing all sorts of trouble for her. Aiman has yet to develop a bond with her father and her step-mom and seeing how Taufeeq has a soft spot for Sajeela, it could make things very uncomfortable for Aiman. The preview for next week shows Sajeela coming face-to-face with Haider and Bibi. That ought to be interesting. What did you think of today’s episode? Are you looking forward to next week? Kanwal Murtaza