Finding Salaam After Talaq

Chapter 3: an awaited arrival

One Year into Marriage 2011

The walls of the dimly lit room felt like they were closing in on me as I huddled in the corner, clutching my bruised arms close to my chest. Tears streamed down my cheeks, mingling with the rain of pain that showered upon me. One year into our marriage, and the man I thought was my prince turned into a monster. Ahmed's charming facade had shattered, revealing a side of him I never knew existed.
The sound of shattering glass echoed through the room as he threw another object in a fit of rage. "You think you can defy me, Fatima? You're my wife, and you will do as I say!" he spat, his voice laced with venom.
I trembled, feeling the weight of his anger suffocating me. "I just wanted to visit my family, Ahmed. It's been months since I saw them," I pleaded, my voice quivering.
"You have no family other than me now. Your place is here, with me," he growled, grabbing me by the arm and pulling me up forcefully.
Fear and pain merged into an indescribable agony, and as the storm of his wrath raged on, my spirit withered beneath his cruel words and fists. I had become a prisoner in my own home, trapped in a loveless marriage that left me broken and shattered.

~~~~~~~~~
August 2009

The airport bustled with excitement and anticipation as I anxiously awaited Ahmed's arrival. Beside me stood my mehram, Uncle Yusuf, offering his unwavering support.
As the time approached, my heart pounded with excitement and nervousness. The sight of the familiar face I had grown to love from afar would soon be a reality. I fidgeted with the hem of my abaya, attempting to calm my nerves.
Uncle Yusuf, noticing my restlessness, gently placed his hand on my shoulder, offering a reassuring smile. "He will be here soon, Fatima. Just take a deep breath and remember to keep things modest," he said in a soothing tone.
I nodded, grateful for his guidance and understanding. Uncle Yusuf was not only my mehram but also a dear friend, someone I trusted implicitly. We had grown up together and shared a bond that was akin to siblings. We were similar in ages and he was my late father's youngest brother.
The flight information displayed on the screen announced that Ahmed's flight had landed. My heart leaped with joy and trepidation. Soon, the crowd began to trickle out from the arrival gates, and I searched for Ahmed's familiar face.  As the minutes dragged on, my eyes searched the crowd for any sign of Ahmed. I felt a rollercoaster of emotions — anticipation, joy, and a touch of uncertainty as our online courtship was about to transition into the real world.
Suddenly, I spotted a familiar face in the crowd. Ahmed's tall frame and warm smile stood out amidst the bustling airport. Our eyes locked, and a surge of emotions washed over me. It was as if time stood still, and the world around us faded into the background.

"Is that him?" Yusuf whispered, noticing the change in my expression.

I blushed and nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. My heart raced as I held back tears of joy.

And then, there he was. Ahmed emerged from the crowd, looking as dashing as ever in his traditional attire. His eyes still locked with mine, and a warm smile graced his face. Time seemed to slow as we approached each other. It felt like the whole world faded away, leaving only the two of us in a timeless moment.
As Ahmed approached, he offered a warm and respectful greeting.

"Assalamu Alaikum, Fatima," Ahmed greeted with a warm smile, his voice comforting and polite.

"Wa alaykumu as-salam, Ahmed," I replied, maintaining appropriate modesty and respect in my demeanor.
Ahmed stood before me, a respectful distance between us, as per our agreement. His eyes, filled with love and longing, spoke volumes. We exchanged a heartfelt greeting, embracing the moment while still adhering to our values.
"I missed you," I whispered softly, unable to contain the rush of emotions within me.
"I missed you too, my love," Ahmed replied, his voice tinged with affection. "You look more beautiful than I could have ever imagined."
Yusuf cleared his throat discreetly, reminding us of our surroundings. We shared a knowing smile and proceeded to walk together towards the exit.  With Yusuf's permission, Ahmed and I exchanged pleasantries, engaging in friendly conversation as we made our way towards the airport exit. Our interactions were filled with warmth and genuine interest in getting to know each other better.
Throughout our time at the airport, we maintained our modest interactions, careful not to cross any boundaries. As we walked together, maintaining appropriate distance, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of peace and contentment. Our love had endured the test of distance, and now we were together once more, ready to embark on the next chapter of our love story.