In the heart of Wales, behind the walls of the grandest estate in the city, lies a hidden gem: sixteen-year-old Anna Hussain. With her mother as serene as the morning mist and her father a vibrant burst of color, Anna grapples with her identity-caug...
At times it becomes difficult to stay focused and past week has been something like that for me. I had to pull myself out of my current state to publish the Thursday episode. I hope you enjoy this read because I am so excited to introduce you to the most awaited character; Anna's dad. Welcome him as he will be with us for the finale. <3
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"How are your studies going, Marry?"
I asked, exhaling deeply as I awaited hr response. Mariam glanced my way, her expression grateful as she answered, "They're on their way to exams, and guess what? I know nothing about any subject!"
I chuckled at her familiar refrain; Mariam was notorious for her last-minute cramming sessions before exams.
"When do they start?" I inquired, earning a mock glare from her.
"Next week, on your birthday," she revealed, her tone tinged with amusement.
My eyes widened in surprise as I struggled to process the revelation.
"When are they?" I stammered, incredulous.
Mariam's teasing smirk faded as she chided gently, "You don't remember your own birthday? You're always so excited about it."
Gulping down my disbelief, I forced a smile, though inside, I felt a pang of sadness. There was a time when the mere mention of my birthday would spark excitement and anticipation throughout the family. Now, it seemed like just another day, barely acknowledged by anyone.
"What's next for you?" I asked, attempting to redirect my thoughts.
Mariam's face lit up as she launched into her plans, detailing her aspirations to study in London and eventually pursue a Master's degree at Oxford. However, her sudden change in trajectory puzzled me.
"Huh! You know, I met this guy..."
Mariam's voice trailed off as she explained her decision to follow her crush to Oxford after completing her undergraduate studies. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at her infatuation, though beneath my jesting exterior, I sensed a tinge of concern for her well-being.
As Mariam's cheeks flushed pink with embarrassment, she swiftly changed the subject, lightheartedly chastising me for not asking about her new car.
Her sudden outburst caught me off guard, and I recoiled slightly, unaccustomed to her loud tone.
I shot her a glare before quickly softening my expression into one of apology.
"When did you get this car?"I inquired, eager to steer the conversation away from the awkward moment.
Mariam raised an eyebrow, her demeanor shifting back to playful as she responded, "On my birthday. Dad gave it to me as a gift."
My heart sank at her words, a heavy weight settling in the pit of my stomach. Something in Mariam's tone stirred a familiar ache within me, and I found myself unable to meet her gaze as my mind raced with unspoken thoughts and unshed tears.
Flashback: 9th May 2012 (my 13th birthday) - Wales
The morning greeted me with warmth and anticipation as I woke up, already buzzing with excitement.
"Good morning, doll!"
My mom's voice pulled me from my thoughts, and I turned to see her standing beside my bed.
In an instant, I was upright, my eyes fixated on the large square box she held. Wrapped in shiny blue paper and adorned with a ribbon, it held the promise of a birthday surprise.
Ignoring all manners, I eagerly tore into the wrapping, heedless of my mom's cautionary words.
"Oh, calm down, baby. It's all yours. Don't give yourself a paper cut."
She chuckled, though I barely registered her presence as I delved into the box.
Gasping for air, I beheld the gift within. "Wow, Mom-" I began, but she interrupted me with a smile, settling beside me on the bed.
"Do you like it? I knew you would. But be careful unwrapping it; there's more inside." She said, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
Before I could explore further, she showered me with kisses and hugs, then made her way to the door.
As I peered into the box, my mom's voice drew me back to reality.
"Your favorite breakfast is ready downstairs. Don't be late, honey; I'm already starving." She called out, and I nodded eagerly before returning my attention to the box. Pulling out the large teddy bear nestled within, I hugged it tightly, savoring its softness.
Setting the bear aside, I resumed my exploration, uncovering a small rectangular box wrapped in pink paper.
With trembling fingers, I opened it, and my breath caught in my throat at the sight of the iPad nestled inside. My heart overflowed with gratitude for my mom's thoughtfulness, and I whispered a silent thank you as I powered it on.
But there was more to discover. Peering back into the box, I uncovered another surprise: a small box swathed in red velvet.
With bated breath, I lifted the lid, revealing my favorite iPod. Tears of joy welled in my eyes as I marveled at my mom's generosity.
Overwhelmed with excitement, I bounded downstairs, singing "Happy Birthday!" to myself. However, my jubilation was cut short as I spotted the open front door and my mom engaged in conversation with an unseen figure. A rush of anticipation surged through me as I recognized my dad standing in the doorway.
