Love's Gentle Embrace

The First Prayer Together

Time flew by as the family engaged in a deep conversation about Noor's future. Mr. Ahmad gently broached the subject, discussing with the family, and of course Noor, what she wanted to do next. He asked if she wished to take some rest, or if she was ready to return to Westcoast to join her job, as more than ten days had passed since she had last been there.

Noor hesitated, still processing the emotional highs and lows of recent events. As the room fell silent, Ruhaan softly spoke up. "Noor, just a thought," he said, his tone gentle yet thoughtful. "If you feel like you need to rest, then by all means, take your time. But remember, time waits for no one. You liked your job, didn't you? Ayaan mentioned how passionate you were about it. Maybe going back could help you take your mind off things, give you a fresh start."

He paused for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "I'm not pushing you to stay with me or rush into anything. You should have your own space, take as much time as you need. But just... don't let yourself be held back by your own thoughts."

Noor listened intently, feeling the depth of Ruhaan's suggestion. His words were kind, thoughtful—he wasn't trying to fix her but simply offering a path forward. His ability to understand her emotions without overwhelming her struck both Mr. Ahmad and Mrs. Sitara deeply. They exchanged a knowing glance, realizing in that moment that Ruhaan was, indeed, the right person for Noor.

After some contemplation, Noor finally spoke. "I'll think about it. I don't want to waste time, but I do need you all to understand what I'm going through," she said, looking towards her parents. "I still need some time."

Mr. Ahmad responded with a reassuring smile. "No problem, beta. Take all the time you need." Ruhaan nodded in agreement, and Mrs. Sitara gave a comforting smile. 

The conversation continued a little longer before everyone decided to retire for the night, as it was well past midnight. 

Before heading to bed, Ruhaan hesitated for a moment, then asked Mr. Ahmad for permission to sleep separately. "I don't want Noor to feel uncomfortable," he explained, concerned about giving her space. Mr. Ahmad, however, declined. "No, Ruhaan," he said firmly but kindly. "You are leaving tomorrow, and I believe you should spend more time with Noor. It's important for both of you to understand each other better, and I know you already do, but this will help her understand you without hesitation." His voice carried wisdom, leaving no room for Ruhaan to argue.

Respectfully, Ruhaan nodded and offered salam to everyone before heading toward Noor's room. 

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Mrs. Sitara sat down with Noor, gently encouraging her. "Beta, this time is important for both of you to understand one another. Remember, Allah created women from the rib of man, meaning you were destined for each other before you were even born. This is His plan for you," she said, adding an Islamic perspective to ease Noor's heart.

Noor took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her mother's words, and realized that perhaps Allah had planned this moment for her all along.

Noor entered her room with a bottle of cold water in hand, only to find Ruhaan standing on the balcony, talking to someone on the phone. His tone was firm, as though he was giving instructions. It made her pause—what kind of job does he do? How is he giving orders this late at night? Is he inconsiderate of other people's time, or is his work that demanding? 

As these thoughts swirled in her mind, she placed the water bottle on the bedside table and glanced at him again. She walked over to her bookshelf, slipping her glasses on, and her gaze returned to Ruhaan. Her thoughts lingered. Is this man really my husband now? she wondered.