•AN OBLIVIOUS ONE•

ISLAM🤍

The time had finally come for me to be conveyed to my husband’s house. As I prepared to leave, I could see my father’s tears. He didn’t want to part with me like this, but he had to let me go so I could pursue my education and enjoy a better life. He knew I was a strong girl, but that didn’t make it any easier for him.

It was heart-wrenching to see him like that. I felt a mix of sadness and resolve as I prepared for this new chapter of my life.

Tanveer was there, too. She wouldn’t miss this moment for anything. She was among those who helped convey me to my new home. Her presence was a comfort in an otherwise difficult situation.

Aasma was visibly gloomy throughout the ride. She couldn’t hide her displeasure at the thought of me leaving with what she had called “the monster.” Her concern for me was evident, and I could see her anxiety written all over her face.

As we drove towards my new home, I felt a swirl of emotions—sadness, apprehension, and a faint glimmer of hope. I tried to focus on the future and the possibilities that lay ahead, despite the heavy weight of leaving everything familiar behind.

I hoped that I would be safe living with what Aasma referred to as a “monster.”

“Aasma!… Aasma!” I called out, jolting her from her thoughts.

“We’ve arrived,” I announced, trying to sound more composed than I felt.

“Oh… I guess this is it. Do you want me to stay with you tonight, just for tonight?” Aasma asked, her concern evident. She didn’t want to let me go. Since our mum passed away, our bond had only grown stronger, and she couldn’t believe I was leaving the house so soon.

“Nah, I’m okay,” I replied, forcing a sad smile.

Even as I reassured her, I felt the weight of the moment pressing down on me. Saying goodbye to Aasma was hard, but I had to face this new chapter on my own.

“All I need from you is to take care of yourself, Mamie, and Baba. And when I say take care, I mean really take good care. You know Baba is diabetic… please don’t let your guard down. I know you’re intelligent and I trust you,” I said, gently rubbing Aasma’s cheeks with my palm.

“I know, Yaya… I’ll do all that. But what about you? You’re… how do I put this? You and I both know you’re too gentle, way too gentle. Getting married to this man feels like jumping from the frying pan into the fire. Yaya, please, for Allah’s sake, don’t let him mistreat you. You know your worth. Please!” Aasma pleaded, her voice trembling as she neared tears.

I didn’t fully understand why my younger sister was so distressed. Maybe she had already started to miss me.

“And yes, if he tries anything stupid, anything at all, don’t hesitate to call me. I’ll show him who I am!” Aasma said, her voice filled with determination, which made me burst into laughter.

“Aasma, calm down. I know you care about me, but there’s no need to get so worked up. It’s not like he’s a bad person. I’m sure we’ll get along soon. Remember, I’m doing this for my education. It’s not hard for me to get along with people, so relax. Once I get my certificate and start working, I’ll take very good care of you all,” I said, pulling her into a tight hug.

“I love you… take care of yourself,” I said as I released her from the embrace.

Just then, Tanveer cleared her throat. She was seated in the front, while the driver had stepped out to signal when I would exit the car. Mamie and Fadila hadn’t followed us as per Baba's instructions.

“You guys are getting all lovey-dovey and emotional, forgetting I’m right here,” Tanveer said, feigning hurt.

“Sorry, my love… you know I could never forget you. My paddy for life,” I said, chuckling.