Out Of Wreckage?

Chapter Twenty Six

At times, we are frightened by something which hasn't occurred yet. We try to put it away but it's still somewhere in the back of our mind.
I felt the same way when I heard him talk on the phone.

After everything that has eventuated so far, I just prayed that nothing must go wrong now, nothing worse should happen but every time our fate played it's game and we always landed in a mess.
Just like now when we are kicked out of our own home. Apparently, Aslam was heavily indebted after he gambled alot of money. Our house was raided and the only way to repay was to sell our every asset in the country including the house we lived in. The only thing we had with us left were my ornaments which I've kept for my daughter.

Aslam was still not believing the truth. He just couldn't accept that we had nothing left with us. Thankfully, Mr. Naseer and Nida helped us to find a roof for ourselves.

Mr. Naseer and Pran have been hired by the new buyer of the estate. Even Nida has been asked to work for the new people who'll shift in the house soon. I'm missing her terribly. She had been my support and has always helped me in these tough times. Infact, she is the only one who knows that I'm pregnant. Yes, I confirmed it last week but couldn't bring myself to disclose it to Aslam. He's agitated and doesn't show any signs of affection to Bushra let alone to anyone else. I'm just scared to witness his reaction if I do tell him. I know that I have to speak with him but I'm just waiting for a right moment.
Currently, there are many things that are needed to be taken care of.

Our new rented house is located in the middle of the city and the surrounding is very chaotic because of which, Aslam is always in a foul mood.

I can understand his affliction but he's not ready to share it with me.

Now that we no longer have any money left, we have to do something to run this household. I don't expect anything from Aslam after seeing his condition so I have decided to discuss this matter today.

It was after dinner today that I decided to bring the topic. I was seated next to him when I turned to him.

"As.. Aslam!" I hesitated.

He ignored me and kept his eyes fixed on the diary.

"Aslam, I wish to speak with you."

"And I'm not interested to grant your wish." He whispered.

"Aslam, I..."

"Didn't I tell you that I don't want to hear your voice. Now shut up bitch." He snapped and continued reading.

"Aslam, we need money. There are alot of expenses that we need to attend." I said without flinching.

He closed his diary, "Are you taunting me of being jobless, Rabia?"

I immediately shook my head, "No."

"You certainly are, woman! I won't bear your insults. I'm still taking care of this family. Don't you dare forget." He inched closer and spat on my face.

"I won't ever forget but even you know the truth. Aslam, you don't have a job. In few days, we'll lose our savings. I was simply thinking why can't I work? I have learnt computer and..." His hand connected to my cheek before I could finish.

He slapped me hard.

"DON'T FORCE ME TO REMOVE MY BELT. YOU GOLD-DIGGER!" He howled.

My cheek was burning.

"Woman like you just crave money and men. Now that I'm crippled and poor, you got the guts to ridicule me about being hopeless but remember Rabia, I'm still your husband and you should know your status when you say something like that. You can't do what pleases you. You have to follow my orders." He banged his fist on the table.