We have finally reached the end alhamdulillah. Such a proud, emotional moment for me, a first time author, to have finished my first story. All with the fadhl and karam of Almighty Allah alhamdulillah. I have become so attached to my characters that I don’t want to let go…and yet I’m ready to let go…

Eight Years Later… We all stood on the threshold of my parents house, poised for yet another round of goodbyes. Mum stepped forward first, hugging me tightly. “Time flew so fast. It’s like you’ll just came and already you have to leave again. But make sure you come again next weekend huh! I already feel…

“Fazila!” Dr. Gani smiled when she saw me, “come on in.” I entered her office with Ahmed in tow. I smiled and greeted her then introduced Ahmed to her. “Ah, Mr. Cassim. Nice to see you here with your wife this time,” Dr. Gani turned her smile on Ahmed. I saw Ahmed’s guilt-ridden expression and…

1 YEAR LATER… “Fadheelah?” I could hear Ahmed calling my name, coming closer and closer, “where are you?” I stood stock-still in the bathroom, robbed of speech, my eyes riveted on the slim white stick in my hand. Was it true?? Could it really be true??? “Princess?” Ahmed was knocking on the bathroom door now,…

“What is it?” I asked when he sat me down in the lounge, a ball of nervousness forming in the pit of my stomach. I could feel my heart starting to beat faster… “Relax!” Ahmed laughed, seeing my face, “you’re looking like I’m gonna throw you off a cliff or something. It’s not bad news,…

I was busy making lasagne for supper when I saw a large pot with yet another bunch of roses, complete with leaves and branches, appear in the doorway…followed by a smiling face. “Ahmed!” I laughed, “isn’t our house full already?” As a form of atonement, remorse or gratitude Ahmed had been regularly bringing home flowers…

I reluctantly sat down on the sofa again. Clasping my hands tightly in my lap I stared straight ahead. My mind was in turmoil, the stupid nightie which had made me feel so confident now making me feel over-exposed and foolish. That’s what I was. Foolish. How many times did a person have to bang…

Mum hugged me tightly. “Are you sure you’ll be okay? I can stay back if you need me. I won’t mind at all, I promise,” she said for what was like the tenth time. I laughed and hugged her back then pulled away. “Mum, I’ll be okay, InshaAllah. I’ve already stayed here for seven weeks…