Hidden bonds of love

38.

"Maryam, it's okay to cry, my darling daughter. I'm here for you," Alamin reassured her as he gently stroked her back while holding her close.

After their embrace, Alamin regained his composure and shared the news he had been wanting to discuss with her.

"Five days ago, a young man's parents came here seeking permission for their son to meet and get to know you. He's genuinely interested in getting to know you," Alamin informed Maryam.

For a moment, Maryam fell into contemplative silence before she asked, "Daddy, who is he?"

"His name is Suraj Almustapha Manga," Alamin replied, and Maryam's eyes widened as she heard Suraj's name. She felt a sense of discomfort and confusion.

"Why would Suraj want to get to know me? Does that mean he has feelings for me?" Maryam pondered silently.

"I granted them permission for their son to meet you, assuming you were already involved with Yusuf, but I see I was mistaken," Alamin observed, his eyes fixed on Maryam as he studied her reactions.

Maryam remained silent, her head bowed, and her fingers fidgeting. Her expression was neutral, devoid of any smiles.

"Dad, Yusuf and I never started a relationship; there's nothing between us," she finally confessed. She then clutched her knees to her chest and sighed softly before continuing, "You know, Dad, I used to believe I was in love with Yaya Ahmad. When I found out he wasn't my blood brother, I realized he cared deeply for me. I thought I loved him, but I was wrong. It was simply sibling love I have for him. He looked after me and protected me, and I'll always cherish those memories."

"He'll always be your brother, okay?" Alamin reassured her with a warm smile.

☼☼☼☼☼

A few days later, Maryam awoke brimming with energy, even before anyone else in the house. She decided to take charge of breakfast because it was a special day – Sajida and her husband Nameer were moving into their new home. As the family gathered in the living room, they were taken aback and pleasantly surprised to find Maryam already seated at the dining table, eagerly awaiting their arrival.

"Hello, my beloved family. I'm thrilled you all made it on time. I've prepared breakfast for everyone," Maryam greeted them with a warm and cheerful tone, radiating positivity.

They exchanged smiles, delighted to witness Maryam's improved spirits, and took their seats around the table.

"You seem unusually energetic today, and I must say, it's quite refreshing," Nameer remarked.

"It's wonderful to see you so full of life, Sister Maryam. By the way, could you make some of your delicious snacks for me? I've been missing them terribly. Today is a big day as we move into our new home, and I'll miss you a lot," Hanan chimed in with childlike enthusiasm, her happiness evident in her voice.

"Oh, Hanan, I'll miss you too, and I'm sorry we couldn't spend more time together before you leave," Maryam expressed with a warm smile.

"It's okay, Sister Maryam. The food looks absolutely delicious. Let's dig in!" Hanan enthusiastically suggested, sparking laughter from everyone.

Turning her attention to Tina, Maryam kindly invited her to join them, even though Tina initially hesitated. However, Alamin reassured her, and Tina's face lit up with happiness as she joined them at the table. As they all savored the breakfast, compliments flowed about the delectable food and how much they missed Maryam's cooking.

Just then, Yusuf entered the house and, not finding anyone in the living room, wandered into the dining area, where the family was enjoying themselves. Yusuf was surprised to see Maryam among them.

"Maryam, it's a pleasant surprise to see you out of your room," Yusuf remarked as he pulled up a chair and joined them. Maryam responded with a simple smile, assuring him that she was feeling fine.

"Dad, I read your books, the ones you wrote about me and even Mom's book titled 'Muslim Ummah.' They were truly captivating, and you're an excellent writer. I thoroughly enjoyed them. I can't believe I finished three books in just one month; I guess I'm a fast reader," Maryam shared, a cute smile gracing her lips.

Alamin gazed at his beloved daughter with profound love and affection. Tenderly placing his hands on hers, he expressed, "I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have found you. I feel like the luckiest dad in the world to have such a beautiful, loving, and caring daughter like you."

The room was filled with heartfelt "Awwwns" as everyone smiled, their hearts warmed by the touching moment.

Maryam then shared something with her father, "And, Dad, my friend Valerie has been longing to meet you and shake your hand because you're her favorite writer. She adores your writing. I know you've already met, but when she comes, I'll introduce you properly. You should have seen her reaction the first time she saw me with your book and discovered you're my dad. I kept it a secret from her, and she was quite upset; she almost lost it. Fortunately, I had my friends Najiba and Mustab there to save me." Maryam recounted the story with a charming smile.

Alamin chuckled with joy, and their conversation continued. As they talked, Yusuf couldn't help but sit there, admiring Maryam. Her every word and action drew him closer to her. He clenched his jaw and shifted his gaze away, noticing the way Nameer had been looking at him.

Later that day, they accompanied Sajida and her husband to their new home, and Yusuf brought Maryam back home. Although they did have a brief conversation on the way, Maryam didn't seem particularly interested in engaging deeply.

The next day, when Maryam visited, she found herself in her room, feeling somewhat lonely. When her friends Najiba and Mustab entered, she couldn't help but feel relieved and happy.

"Hey, you need to get up and get ready. We're going out," Najiba announced.

Maryam raised an eyebrow, curious. "It's a surprise, and you have to come," Mustabshira added.

Maryam smiled at them, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. "You girls are making me quite curious," she playfully remarked.

"Get ready and put on something nice," Najiba instructed.

Maryam inquired about everyone at home. "How is everyone at home?" she asked Mustabshira.

"They're all doing well, but today, let's not discuss anyone from home, alright?" Mustabshira replied with a warm smile.

"Okay," Maryam agreed.

Once Maryam was ready, she looked absolutely stunning. In the living room, she spotted her dad and introduced Valeria to him. Alamin was elated, and Valeria expressed her admiration for his books. Alamin was delighted.

"Mr. Dad, my favorite writer, we'd like to steal your daughter and take her out for an adventure. We promise to bring her back safe and sound," Valeria said joyfully.

"Permission granted, have a great time," Alamin responded with happiness in his voice and a warm smile.

Valeria had a car, so she drove them to an upscale restaurant. After parking, they all got out, and Maryam was asked, "Are you ready to see your surprise?" Maryam felt a soft sigh and an inexplicable nervousness.

"Yes, I'm ready," Maryam replied.

"Your eyes are so white right now," Najiba remarked.

"She gets those white eyes when she's nervous," Mustabshira added.

"Your eyes turn so white when you're nervous. What an angel!" Najiba teased playfully.

"Let's go, and you'll need to close your eyes," one of the girls suggested.

Maryam sighed and said, "Seriously?"

The girls laughed and assured her it was a surprise she had to experience. As they reached a beautifully decorated section of the restaurant, it was serene with no one else around. They stopped, and Maryam was instructed to open her eyes. They all shouted, "Surprise!" Slowly, Maryam opened her eyes, and what she saw left her utterly speechless. She stared in disbelief, as if in a dream, unsure if her eyes were playing tricks on her or if this was reality. She glanced at her friends and then back at him, lost for words.